COLOMBO – The United Kingdom through the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is providing £ 880,000 (US$ 1,043,395) to strengthen the food and nutrition security of marginal fishers in Tangalle, Negombo, Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, Matara, Puttalam, Chilaw, and Mannar.
In light of World Fisheries Day (Nov 21) being celebrated this week, the British High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Sarah Hulton OBE announced the support saying, “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 support will focus on increasing access to nutritious food and other essentials for families.”
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 amongst the poorest within the fishing community. Eligible fishers will receive US$ 47 per month for a period of three months in unconditional cash transfers to help affected households meet their essential needs, including immediate food and livelihood requirements.
Minister of Fisheries, Douglas Devananda, appreciative of the support extended to the fisheries community said, “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.”
FAO Representative for Sri Lanka and the Maldives, Vimlendra Sharan noting that small-scale fishers have been faced with multiple challenges this year, said reduced fishing days a week, decreased fish catch, and reduced demand due to the fall in purchasing power in rural areas have all significantly impacted this group. “As FAO we are committed to protecting the livelihoods of vulnerable fishers during this crisis and thank the United Kingdom for extending their support for the fisheries community,” he added.
Together with its partners, FAO in Sri Lanka is addressing urgent food security needs, protecting the livelihoods of vulnerable farmers and fishers in the most affected districts while promoting agriculture, including in urban settings.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) leads international efforts to defeat hunger. It helps countries modernize and strengthen agriculture, forestry, and fisheries practices, making them more sustainable and ensuring food security & nutrition for all. FAO focuses special attention on developing rural areas, home to the majority of the world’s poor and hungry people.
-FAO
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