Securing access to Ukraine’s arable land is vital for a country long known as the "breadbasket of Europe."
However, clearing the land of mines — a result of Russia’s ongoing invasion — could take decades. Over 174,000 square kilometers, an area larger than Greece, are now littered with explosives.
Despite the challenges, accelerated efforts have made nearly 20% of the affected land usable again this year.
In Mykolayiv, farmer Inna Boiko has seen progress. At the start of the war, more than half of her 50,000-hectare farm was filled with craters, destroyed equipment, and mines, according to Digi24. c
Using improvised methods, she began clearing the land herself. Today, international assistance, including advanced equipment from Japan and funding from philanthropist Howard G. Buffett, has transformed the demining efforts.
One of the Largest Donors
Howard G. Buffett, a farmer and son of billionaire Warren Buffett, has become one of the largest donors to Ukraine's demining initiatives.
His foundation has provided innovative technology, converting bulldozers and tractors into remotely operated demining equipment.
“This is how we can help farmers and rebuild the economy,” Buffett said during an interview in Kyiv.
Demining efforts have global backing. Countries such as Canada, Germany, and Japan have collectively donated $1 billion.
Major companies, including Deere & Co. and Caterpillar Inc., have contributed engineering expertise to design devices capable of withstanding explosions.
Yet, as Buffett notes, Ukraine still requires more resources to address what remains a long-term challenge.
Ukrainian grain company Nibulon SA has also stepped in, creating a demining division to clear 5,000 hectares in Mykolayiv. While this has been costly, the company now offers services to thousands of small farmers in the region.
Experts agree that demining will take decades, with prioritization of the most critical areas essential.
“You can’t clear every square meter of land — it’s not feasible,” said Guy Rhodes of the UN’s FAO and WFP.
