The official signing of agreements for a landmark project valued at US$ 1.33 million (approximately Rs. 436 million), aimed at rehabilitating inland fishing communities in the Eastern Province that lost their livelihoods due to Cyclone ‘Ditwah’ and strengthening their long-term economic security, took place yesterday (29) at the Embassy of Japan in Colombo under the patronage of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar.
The project will be fully funded by the Government of Japan, while the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) will provide technical assistance. The agreement was signed by the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, H.E. ISOMATA Akio, and the FAO Resident Representative, Mr. Vimlendra Sharan.
Main programs to be implemented under the project :
- Establishment of 200 fish cages across 30 selected reservoirs in the Eastern Province.
- Provision of the necessary barrage net systems for the selected reservoirs.
- Supply of hormones and other essential materials to enhance the facilities of the Inginiyagala Fish Breeding Center in the Eastern Province.
- Conducting technical training programs on cage culture for fishermen’s associations and their representatives.
- Providing free fish fry and fish feed for the first cultivation cycle.
Speaking at the event, Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekhar emphasized that the project would mark a new chapter in the development of Sri Lanka’s freshwater fisheries sector.
“I express my sincere gratitude to the Government of Japan and the FAO for their invaluable support in promoting freshwater fish production in our country through modern technology. This advanced cage culture system will significantly contribute to meeting the protein needs of our people while reducing fuel-related costs compared to marine fisheries operations. It will also open up future export opportunities. This initiative presents a valuable opportunity to modernize the freshwater fisheries sector not only in the Eastern Province but throughout the entire country,” the Minister said.
Japanese Ambassador Akio Isomata noted that, at a time when the marine fisheries industry faces challenges due to rising fuel costs, strengthening inland fisheries has become vital for Sri Lanka’s food security. He further reaffirmed Japan’s longstanding commitment as a reliable partner in Sri Lanka’s sustainable development efforts.
The event was also attended by Dr. B.K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa, Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, along with several distinguished guests.
