Rinat Akhmetov, in collaboration with the Mariupol City Council, has launched Mariupol.Reborn, a large-scale initiative aimed at fully restoring the city’s infrastructure after its de-occupation. The project has garnered international support, with the businessman—who has donated over 9 billion hryvnias to Ukraine’s defense and recovery efforts—continuing to invest in the country’s future.
The first phase of Mariupol.Reborn began with a $1.5 million investment, funding the project office, which developed a comprehensive reconstruction plan for the city by the end of 2024. The initiative has already attracted key international partners, including USAID, the EBRD, and the World Bank. Additionally, four European cities—Warsaw, Gdańsk, Wrocław, and Utrecht—have pledged their support for Mariupol’s revival.
Mariupol’s residents will play an active role in shaping the city’s new architectural vision and urban layout. The project office will identify and adapt global best practices in urban regeneration, ensuring they meet the city’s specific needs. Leading international experts in urbanism and architecture will contribute to the development of a modern, sustainable coastal city concept.
Restoring industrial power
The metallurgical giants, Azovstal and Ilyich Iron and Steel Works, together produced 8.6 million tonnes of steel in 2021, accounting for 40% of Ukraine’s total steel output and 90% of Metinvest Group’s production. These plants provided tens of thousands of jobs for Mariupol residents, playing a crucial role in the city’s economy. Rinat Akhmetov has announced plans to rebuild the plants and restore Mariupol steel to its rightful place in global markets. A team of experts will conduct a comprehensive assessment of the destruction and develop a phased recovery plan for the production facilities. The reconstruction will also incorporate cutting-edge technologies, ensuring that the plants become more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.
A new symbol of revival
The Mariupol reconstruction project is set to become the largest in Europe since World War II. SCM Group has assumed the role of general partner, while Metinvest will act as the operating partner overseeing the restoration process. The city’s development strategy will integrate its industrial potential with modern urban living standards, ensuring a comprehensive and sustainable revival.
Innovative urban planning and management solutions will shape the new Mariupol, with reconstruction efforts extending across all aspects of urban life—from transport infrastructure to social facilities, from parks and waterfronts to medical and educational institutions.
The material was prepared based on the publication: https://thehill.com/policy/defense/4691809-mariupol-future-ukraine-recovery/.
Written by Natalie Koval
