UNOPS brings global recognition to Sri Lankan project
Thursday, 1 August 2013 02:12
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With the focused thrust of the Sri Lankan Government to develop the fisheries sector of Sri Lanka that was directly affected by the 30-year war, the Ministry of Fisheries in partnership with the Ceylon Fisheries Corporation launched a post tsunami coastal rehabilitation and resource management project in seven districts. The project focused on boosting economic activity by rebuilding harbours and small landing sites in the south and east.
The implementing partner of the project selected by the Government of Sri Lanka – the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) – specialises in the project management of infrastructure development and has taken Sri Lanka to the global map by being selected as the top four projects globally in UNOPS. The project is funded by IFAD (International Fund for Agricultural Development).
Prathapasinghe, Project Director for the Ministry of Fisheries, commended UNOPS’s ability to meet the excellent standards set in terms of marine engineering and operational planning. The project team was able to mitigate construction risks and finish the project on schedule and thus, was selected as a model project globally.
The fisheries sector plays an important part in generating livelihood for over 250,000 people in Sri Lanka. The tsunami in 2004 affected more than three quarters of the country’s fishing industry. The fishing fleet and related infrastructure were severely damaged. Over 20,000 fishermen families benefited from the project.
The construction of breakwaters and key walls provided safety to fishermen. Better facilities such as re-fuelling pumps, ice storage and auction halls helped increase income. For additional livelihood, families of fishermen are engaged in net-making and food processing.
The project is recognised by UNOPs headquarters as one of the top four best projects of the year in building sustainable infrastructure. Francoise Jacob, UNOPS Director, is thrilled with the global award. She emphasised the need to strengthen skills of local communities to manage such infrastructure and ensure the project’s sustainability.
