MSC Foundation partners with Medair to rebuild water systems supplying the village of Savyntsi in eastern Ukraine

Responding to the extensive damage caused in the aftermath of Russian occupation, the MSC Foundation has donated €150,000 to rebuild the water systems of the village of Savyntsi, bringing its remaining residents access to safe, clean water

Focus area: Emergency relief

The immense impact of the ongoing war in Ukraine will be felt for generations. In 2024, the United Nations reported that over 14.6 million people, or approximately 40% of the remaining population, will need humanitarian assistance. "More than two years since Russia's full-scale invasion, regular shelling and attacks continue to claim lives and destroy homes and critical infrastructure across the country," explained UN Refugee Agency spokesperson Shabia Mantoo.

Savyntsi was under Russian occupation for more than 6 months, from 2nd March 2022 to 10th September 2022, during which the town and surrounding villages were subjected to heavy bombardment, inflicting major damage on buildings, roads and civil infrastructure. Essential water supply boreholes and pipelines were destroyed, leaving the town without sufficient access to safe drinking water. As a result, people used improvised water sources, exposing them to contaminants through drinking and reducing their ability to maintain good hygiene practices that reduce disease transmission.

The MSC Foundation has partnered with Medair to address the significant gaps in Savyntsi’s water supply. Medair is working closely with local authorities and the water supply utility company to carry out critical rehabilitations. The extensive damage to the central water supply system has made it necessary to drill a new main supply borehole. In addition, a new water tower will be built to ensure the system has sufficient pressure to reach all homes, including the upper floors of tower blocks. The water tower will also feed stored water reservoirs and buffer the frequent power supply disruptions experienced in Eastern Ukraine due to the war. Repairs to damaged pipelines will improve water distribution efficiency and reliability. These actions will enhance water access for over 3,500 people who are still in the process of rebuilding their lives after occupation during ongoing conflict risks.

Lastly, a new pump has been installed to increase water supply production in central Savyntsi, while drilling for wells is ongoing in northern Savyntsi. Exploratory drilling and preliminary well yield estimates show promising indications of a suitable aquifer. A site has been prepared for the erection of a prefabricated water tower, which will be transported to the location immediately before installation. Prioritisation of critical pipeline segments is ongoing to target the repairs that will yield the most impactful improvements.

The MSC Foundation and Medair are confident that this pilot project will provide Savyntsi residents with a reliable long-term water supply solution, which is a crucial component of supporting people to return to their homes.