Inginiyagala, Ampara, 26 March 2025 – The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with funding support from the Government of Japan and in collaboration with the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources and the National Aquaculture Development Authority of Sri Lanka (NAQDA), officially inaugurated and handed over the upgraded hatchery and three live fingerling bowzers at the NAQDA Aquaculture Development Center in Inginiyagala, Ampara.

The ceremony was held under the auspices of Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar and Japanese Ambasador Akio ISOMATA, underscoring the commitment of both governments to enhancing inland fisheries production and improving the livelihoods of rural fishing communities, an FAO news release said.

“The newly upgraded hatchery and the provision of live fingerling transportation bowzers will significantly enhance the breeding, rearing, and distribution of quality fish fingerlings to inland water bodies, boosting inland fisheries production and ensuring a stable source of nutrition and income for local fisher communities,” it said.

“This initiative marks a key milestone in the US$3 million project funded by Japan and implemented by FAO in partnership with NAQDA to strengthen inland fisheries and promote sustainable aquaculture in Sri Lanka. In addition to upgrading the Inginiyagala center, the project is strengthening three other NAQDA Aquaculture Development Centers and an existing community-operated mini fish breeding center, while also establishing three new community-operated mini hatcheries in Batticaloa, Anuradhapura, and Monaragala.”

Speaking at the event, Ambassador ISOMATA reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to investing in people, stating, “Japan prioritizes human capacity development. Rather than simply providing fish to meet immediate needs, we focus on transferring knowledge and skills in fish farming and sustainable management. Through this approach, we hope to empower Sri Lanka to achieve self-sustained growth and build a stable and sustainable future.”

Minister Chandrasekar, highlighted the importance of strategic partnerships in advancing Sri Lanka’s fisheries sector: “This project is a testament to the power of collaboration. By strengthening hatchery operations and improving the transportation of live fingerlings, we are ensuring a more productive and sustainable inland fisheries sector that will benefit thousands of fisher families across the country.”

The initiative is expected to directly benefit approximately 3,000 inland fishers, hatchery operators, and fish feed producers while also contributing to broader food security and rural economic development. Additionally, the introduction of improved broodstock development, digital integration in inland fisheries, and capacity-building programs for fishers and aquaculture officers are integral components of the broader project.

FAO Representative for Sri Lanka, Mr. Vimlendra Sharan, emphasized FAO’s dedication to enhancing the resilience of Sri Lanka’s inland fisheries sector: “Through this initiative, we are not only improving aquaculture infrastructure but also equipping communities with the necessary resources and knowledge to sustain inland fisheries in the long run. FAO remains committed to working with the Government of Sri Lanka and partners to drive impactful, lasting change.”