Hayastan Fund campaigns to rebuild Syunik irrigation canal

PanARMENIAN.Net - The Hayastan All-Armenian Fund has launched a fundraising campaign titled "Homeland and Eternity" in partnership with local organizations. This year’s initiative aims to support the reconstruction of the Spandaryan Canal in Armenia’s Syunik Province.

Instead of its traditional televised telethon, the Fund has introduced a new format—a series of reflective conversations featuring public and cultural figures discussing the homeland. These discussions have been accompanied by three motivational short films, shot in Syunik and the Spandaryan canal basin, conveying the Fund’s renewed vision of national unity and enduring commitment to Armenia.

"The Spandaryan Canal originates at an altitude of 2,280 meters. Currently, up to 70% of the canal is damaged, depriving several communities of irrigation water. Support the reconstruction of the Spandaryan Canal. Help preserve Armenia’s water resources—today, not tomorrow," states the campaign message, which has resonated especially with younger members of the diaspora.

Dozens of organizations have already joined the effort and contributed donations.

The canal’s reconstruction is crucial for the villages of Sarnakunq, Ishkhanasar, Tsghuk, Spandaryan, Angeghakot, and Shaki. A total of 730 families (4,320 people) will directly benefit, enabling effective irrigation for 2,800 hectares of land and supporting the ecologically rich region’s economic development.

As part of the campaign, Armenia’s President and Chair of the Fund’s Board of Trustees, Vahagn Khachaturyan, met with leaders of major banks and companies in late November to present project updates and financial reports.

The importance of rebuilding the Spandaryan Canal has also been emphasized by Central Bank Governor Martin Galstyan, Union of Banks of Armenia President Daniel Azatyan, and Union of Manufacturers and Businessmen President Arsen Ghazaryan.

Public Television has supported the campaign’s outreach, while communication firm AxelMondrian led the development of the films and concept.

The Fund reminds that since independence, it has united over 1.5 million Armenians worldwide, implementing more than 1,500 projects with a combined investment of nearly $500 million. In 2024, it shifted to a program-based fundraising model to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

This year’s campaign will last one month, culminating in a comprehensive report.