Nicosia, 8 May 2026 - Local stakeholders, environmental experts, bird protection societies, nature lovers and communities working together to help protect and preserve the wetlands gathered at one of Cyprus’s oldest reservoirs, the Kouklia/Kukla wetlands, where recent rainfall has brought water back to the area. Together with the EU-funded rehabilitation of the reservoir, these renewed conditions highlight ongoing efforts to strengthen climate resilience and support nature recovery in the Mesaoria/ Mesarya region.

Funded by the European Union under the Aid Programme for the Turkish Cypriot community and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the project was completed in October 2023 and continues to support environmental conditions in the area.

Built in 1900, the Kouklia/Kukla reservoir is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in Cyprus. While originally constructed as water infrastructure, it has over time developed into an important habitat for wildlife. Due to years of limited maintenance, however, the reservoir deteriorated and could no longer function effectively, particularly under the pressures of climate change.

The rehabilitation works addressed these challenges by repairing key structures, installing a new water control system, adding a bridge, and improving access and monitoring, enabling the reservoir to function more effectively during periods of limited rainfall.

Today, the reservoir plays an important dual role - supporting water retention while also providing a valuable habitat for wildlife. In the face of climate change, the return of water has created favourable conditions for nature to thrive, attracting notable bird species and reinforcing the site’s importance as a refuge for migratory birds. Speaking on the occasion, “Today’s event is significant: it brings together those responsible for water management and those committed to environmental protection, reinforcing a shared understanding that sustainable solutions must balance both needs,” said Giulia Bertezzolo, Head of the Cyprus Settlement Support Unit at the European Commission.

“This project strengthens climate resilience while supporting a reservoir that has, over time, become a valuable habitat for wildlife and biodiversity. Initiatives like this are essential to support sustainable development across Cyprus, particularly in the face of climate change,” added Alexandre Prieto, Project Manager at UNDP.

The project contributes to protecting biodiversity and raising awareness about the importance of preserving such areas for future generations, especially as climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems.
This initiative reflects the European Union’s continued commitment to supporting climate resilience, environmental protection and sustainable development across Cyprus.