Kamianka, Kharkiv Oblast, Ukraine, 30 July 2024 – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is partnering with the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to test cutting-edge demining technologies in the previously occupied community of Kamianka in Kharkiv Oblast. 

The initiative is being implemented under the leadership of First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy of Ukraine Yuliia Svyrydenko and with the support of France, Croatia, Sweden, Netherlands, and Malta.

Situated near Izium, Kamianka was under occupation for five months in 2022, resulting in significant damage and the presence of explosive hazards, including PFM-1 anti-personnel mines. 

This collaboration between the UNDP, WFP, and FAO focuses on testing advanced sensor technologies, including magnetometers, optical cameras, and artificial intelligence (AI), to detect explosive objects both on the surface and underground.

The UNDP, in conjunction with Ukrainian and international companies, has already conducted two phases of testing on specially equipped test sites. This latest phase in Kamianka will apply these technologies in real-world conditions, aiming to achieve three key outcomes:

1. Precise identification of explosive objects and their locations to facilitate safe demining and land release.
2. Evaluation of the effectiveness of drones and sensor technologies in detecting explosives, which will inform the development of standards for these technologies by the Ministry of Economy.
3. An assessment of AI's effectiveness in analysing images of potentially contaminated areas to further refine this approach in demining efforts.

Two teams were on-site for the tests: a Ukrainian company using technology that can detect buried or sub-surface unexploded ordnance (UXO) using sensors and data analysis, and an international company utilizing optical wavelength cameras and imagery analysis to identify explosive threats.

The FAO and WFP have been working in Kamianka since June 2023 to help safely return agricultural land to productive use by surveying fields for explosive ordnance, clearing contaminated land, and supporting small farmers with vouchers to purchase agricultural inputs or rent equipment.

The Swiss Foundation for Mine Action (Fondation Suisse de Déminage, FSD) is also involved, contributing its expertise in mine clearance and explosive ordnance disposal. The FSD's role includes providing technical assistance and supporting the implementation of advanced demining technologies to ensure safe and effective operations. The initiative is being carried out at the FSD’s task sites.

Jaco Cilliers, UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine, highlighted the importance of interagency cooperation: “By leveraging advanced technologies, we aim to restore safe and productive land, contributing to the resilience and recovery of communities affected by the conflict,” Cilliers said.

“This joint initiative underscores the importance of interagency cooperation in addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by conflict-affected communities, paving the way for a safer and more prosperous future,” he added.

Kateryna Drozd, Project Officer for Innovative Solutions at the Ministry of Economy of Ukraine emphasized the critical nature of these efforts: “The development and implementation of innovative demining technologies are crucial for the safety and economic recovery of our regions. Collaborative initiatives like this set a strong foundation for rebuilding and development.” Drozd said.

Media enquiries: Yuliia Samus, UNDP Ukraine Head of Communications; e-mail: yuliia.samus@undp.org.

To learn more about the UNDP Mine Action Project in Ukraine, visit https://www.undp.org/ukraine/projects/mine-action-project-ukraine