In Odesa, Kindergarten No. 141 is reopening its doors for children thanks to the assistance from Japan.

The first children are returning to the restored institution, funded by the citizens of Japan and supported by UNDP.

The facility was damaged in the summer of 2023 due to Russian aggression. The Japanese government and the sister city of Yokohama actively participated in its reconstruction.

In the renovated building, two short-term groups (from 08:00 to 12:00) will operate, already accommodating 25 children. After the completion of works in the other buildings, the kindergarten will be able to host up to 125 children.

Today, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine, Masashi Nakagome, connected with Odesa, along with representatives from Yokohama, who are organizing crowdfunding for further improvements to the kindergarten.

“The opening of this institution, restored with Japan’s support, demonstrates our commitment to protecting children and their future,” noted Mr. Nakagome.

“We value our partnership and will continue to support each other as close friends. We hope that the crowdfunding campaign with UNDP brings many smiles to the children,” emphasized Yokohama Deputy Mayor Hirotaka Sato.

The Mayor of Odesa, Hennadiy Trukhanov, emphasized:

“There are thousands of kilometers between us, but we constantly feel Japan's support in our endeavors and joint projects. The city budget has already covered the costs for the repair of the shelter in the basement,” he stated.

Christoforos Politis, the acting Permanent Representative of UNDP in Ukraine, added:

“It is a great honor for UNDP to be part of such a partnership. We remain committed to the reconstruction of Ukraine, uniting people and communities across borders.”