EU4Moldova: Local Communities programme: completion of three new wastewater systems in Straseni rayon
The villages of Gălești, Căpriana, and Scoreni (Strășeni rayon) are now benefitting from new wastewater systems, marking a major step forward in improving public services and living standards of the people in rural communities!
With a total investment of EUR 1.82 million, provided by the European Union and Austria, in partnership with Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development (MIRD), Local Public Authorities (LPAs), and implemented by the Austrian Development Agency (ADA), the projects strengthen the safe wastewater disposal, local water governance, enhance essential public services, and build climate-resilient communities in Straseni.
Through these European investments, approximately 1,000 households in the targeted villages are benefiting from improved sanitation infrastructure. Public institutions were first connected to the new sewage network, ensuring that children, teachers, and citizens have access to safe and modern sanitary conditions.
Officials, community members and partners gathered today to celebrate this achievement at the closing event, which symbolically marked the launch of the three new wastewater treatment plants. The ceremony underscored the shared commitment of the European Union to fostering sustainable development and stronger local communities in Moldova.
Furthermore, the newly inaugurated systems are designed with scalability in mind, ensuring that infrastructure could be upgraded to the evolving needs of the local population. Beyond immediate improvements in sanitation, the investments contribute to better public health, environmental protection, and overall quality of life in the targeted communities.
This first phase of investments has delivered modern wastewater treatment plants and new sewage networks, supporting local public authorities to provide this basic public service to the population. This investment aims to reduce the huge disparities between urban and rural wastewater service coverage ratio; the project creates equal opportunities for growth and development among rural residents.
Sandra Horina, Counsellor and Head of the Coordination Office for Technical Cooperation at the Austrian Embassy in Chisinau greeted the participants and highlighted: “This sewer modernization projects in Strășeni and the EU4Moldova: Local Communities programme are more than technical improvements. The primary goal is to enhance human wellbeing, and Austria will continue to support Moldova on its path to modernization and EU integration”
Adam Grodzicki, Deputy Head of Cooperation, Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Moldova, stated: “The EU4Moldova: Local Communities programme has successfully delivered lasting improvements across partner communities of Straseni, Leova and Edinet. Through strategic investments in infrastructure and strengthened local governance, citizens now benefit from modernized wastewater systems, upgraded public services, and empowered local authorities. These achievements not only improve the daily life but also reinforce Moldova’s resilience and readiness for European integration. We extend our sincere appreciation to all partners and stakeholders whose commitment made these results possible. Together, we have demonstrated that collaborative action can bring tangible change, and we remain dedicated to building on this foundation for Moldova’s sustainable future.”
Denis Lungul, State Secretary, Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development of the Republic of Moldova added: “Developing the water and wastewater systems in rural communities across the Republic of Moldova is a priority for the government and is in line with the recent National Program for the Development of the Water Supply and Sanitation Sector 2026–2030. These projects support our joint efforts and demonstrate the strength of our partnerships. On this occasion, we express our gratitude for the support provided and hope for further collaboration with EU member states”
Nicolae Budu, Mayor of Galesti village mentioned: “We express our sincere gratitude to European Union, Austrian Development Agency, Ministry of Infrastructure and Regional Development for all the support provided during the implementation of these projects in our Galesti village, as well as in Capriana and Scoreni. These projects are a solid proof of Moldova’s strong European partnership. Every community deserves decent living conditions and real opportunities to grow, with respect for the needs and dignity of every citizen, water supply and wastewater public service being a basic need of every human.”
The programme EU4Moldova: Local Communities was launched in 2022 as a Team Europe initiative of the EU, Austria, Germany and Poland, and was designed to improve quality of life and strengthen community resilience in the Edineț, Strășeni, and Leova rayons. Its objectives include enhancing public services, expanding access to infrastructure, fostering business development and job creation, and supporting community-led initiatives.
