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The Japanese Government, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Ministry of Fisheries, has allocated a grant of US$3 million to enhance inland fisheries and improve rural livelihoods in Sri Lanka.

The initiative, outlined in a press release by the FAO, aims to strengthen food and nutritional security while building resilience in communities. The project will involve the establishment of four community-operated mini hatcheries in Batticaloa, Mullaitivu, Anuradhapura, and Monaragala districts. Additionally, four NAQDA Aquaculture Development Centres and one community-operated mini fish breeding centre will be upgraded to increase breeding and rearing capacity.

Furthermore, the project will focus on enhancing fingerling stocks in selected reservoirs, developing broodstock for breeding units, and promoting cage culture for seed rearing among fisher communities. The initiative will also provide live fish transportation trucks to NAQDA, integrate digital technology into inland fisheries, and enhance the technical capacities of officers and fishers in various aspects of fisheries production.

Ambassador Mizukoshi emphasized the shared importance of fisheries in both Japan and Sri Lanka, highlighting Japan’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s fisheries development. Minister of Fisheries, Hon. Douglas Devananda, expressed the significance of revitalizing the inland fisheries sector to ensure sustainable benefits for all stakeholders involved.

The project is expected to directly benefit approximately 3,000 inland fishers, 40 farmers engaged in mini hatchery operations, and 20 farmers specializing in fish feed preparation. It is also anticipated to have a positive ripple effect on indirect beneficiaries, including family members, consumers, producers of dry fish, and stakeholders in research and academia.

Overall, the project represents a collaborative effort to promote sustainable development, food security, and rural livelihoods in Sri Lanka’s inland fisheries sector.