The Government of Japan has generously granted Rs. 170 million (approx. US$ 547,443) to support demining efforts in Northern Sri Lanka. The grant has been awarded to Skavita Humanitarian Assistance and Relief Project (SHARP), an organization dedicated to humanitarian demining activities.
The grant contract was signed on August 11, 2023, at SHARP's base in Kilinochchi district. Ambassador of Japan, Hideaki Mizukoshi, and Major Gen. (Retd.) Sumathi Ranjan Balasuriya, Director/Field Reporting Officer of SHARP, signed the agreement, highlighting Japan's commitment to the reconciliation and sustainable development of conflict-affected areas in Sri Lanka.
Japan has been a consistent supporter of mine clearance activities in Sri Lanka since the inception of the Sri Lanka Mine Action program. The total assistance provided by Japan exceeds US$ 43 million. The development of conflict-affected regions is a key priority in Japan's official development assistance policy to Sri Lanka.
This year's project aims to facilitate the resettlement of over 400 internally displaced people and improve the livelihoods of more than 2,300 individuals directly or indirectly. This will be achieved by clearing contaminated lands in Kilinochchi and Mullaitivu districts.
