Sweden is allocating additionally US$1.7 million to the UNDP project “Resilient communities through women empowerment”. The funding amendment was signed on 14 May 2025. The project, co-funded by Norway, has a budget of approx.  $10.2 million.  

The additional funds will allow covering another 15 localities in the Republic of Moldova, including three on the left bank of the Nistru River. Energy efficiency and climate resilience initiatives will be funded. Also, 15 women-led agricultural businesses and 60 women engaged in household-level economic activity will benefit from mentoring and funding. 

“Climate change is a global challenge and Moldova has recently experienced rising average annual temperatures and decreasing precipitation. This has led to frequent droughts and reduced water resources, directly impacting agriculture, the economy, and public health. Sweden has consistently supported Moldova in its development and progress efforts and it has been a reliable partner, providing technical and financial support for various projects on environmental protection that have positively impacted local communities,” said Karin Borovic, Head of Development Cooperation, Embassy of Sweden to the Republic of Moldova.

“We are grateful to the long-standing and impactful partnership with Sweden, that will enable us to boost energy and climate resilience of 15 communities on both banks of the Nistru River. This is an investment in local energy security, but also in inclusive, sustainable development that addresses the real needs of people, especially of rural women, disproportionately affected by climate change. We will continue to work to empower rural women to better adapt,” said Daniela Gasparikova, UNDP Resident Representative to the Republic of Moldova.

The 15 localities were selected via a public competition, along with another 22 communities. They will be assisted in developing and implementing gender-sensitive Sustainable Energy and Climate Action Plans (SECAPs). 

In the next stage, the partner localities could access up to $40,000 for local initiatives. In addition, women agro-producers from these communities will be able to access goods and services worth up to $20,000, while women engaged in household-level economic activity may receive support of up to $6,000, with each category contributing between 5% and 10% of the total value.