Ukraine is set to launch a program to provide ready-to-eat meals for schools in Ghana and other African countries, according to Maksym Subkh, Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister and Special Representative for the Middle East and Africa.

The initiative, spearheaded by Ukraine’s First Lady, is part of efforts to deepen ties with African nations and address food security challenges.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming Grain Summit this weekend, Mr Subkh revealed that the program mirrors a similar initiative already operational in Ukraine.

Beyond providing meals, Ukraine aims to introduce technology for local production to ensure self-reliance among African nations.

This comes as Ukraine has already donated 300,000 metric tonnes of grains to African countries amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia.

However, the Grain Summit is expected to explore ways to further bolster food security and enhance agricultural capacity across the continent.

Despite its generosity, Ukraine is grappling with enormous losses from the war. Since Russia’s aggression began, the country has incurred total damages estimated at $1 trillion.

Trade alone has suffered losses amounting to $450 billion, with the agricultural sector losing over $80 billion.

One of Ukraine’s most pressing challenges is demining its arable land.

Mr Subkh highlighted that approximately 40,000 square kilometres of farmland have been contaminated with landmines.

Clearing this vast area is expected to take more than a century if Ukraine undertakes the task alone.

The upcoming summit, therefore, represents a significant opportunity for Ukraine and its African partners to collaborate on food security and agricultural development despite the daunting challenges posed by the ongoing conflict.