25 November 2022 11:11 am
The United Kingdom is providing GBP 880,000 (USD 1,043,395) to strengthen the food and nutrition security of marginalised fishers in nine Fisheries Districts in the country.
The funds are allocated through the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to the affected fishers in Tangalle, Negombo, Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Puttalam, Chilaw, and Mannar.
"We recognize that the fisheries sector in Sri Lanka has been going through a very difficult period. The UK is contributing £880,000 to help address some of the challenges faced by those working in this industry,” the High Commission said.
“The support will focus on increasing access to nutritious food and other essentials for families," the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Sarah Hulton OBE announced in light of World Fisheries Day (November 21) being celebrated this week.
The FAO will utilize the contribution of the British government to support over 5,000 small-scale marine artisanal fishers using non-motorized traditional boats, who have traditionally been among the poorest within the fishing community.
Eligible fishers will receive 47 USD per month for a period of 3 months in unconditional cash transfers to help affected households meet their essential needs, including immediate food and livelihood requirements, the statement said.
The Minister of Fisheries Douglas Devananda appreciated the support extended to the fisheries community "Fish has traditionally been a primary source of protein and a major source of foreign exchange earnings for the country. We must stand with the fishing community during these times to ensure they can continue their valued work which contributes to the food security and financial stability of the country. I thank the British government and FAO for supporting the community."