USD 40.8 mn Japanese support for NGOs engaged in mine clearing

Japan has provided USD 40.8 mn to four NGOs engaged in mine clearing work in Northern and Eastern Sri Lanka since 2002, according to a statement issued by the Japanese Embassy in Colombo on Tuesday (08).

The disclosure was made in the wake of Mines Advisory Group (MAG) receiving US$ 647,611 (approx. Rs. 128 million) for humanitarian de-mining.

The grant contract was signed by Japanese Ambassador in Colombo Mizukoshi Hideaki and Ms. Cristy McLennan, Country Director of MAG.

MAG commenced operations in Sri Lanka in 2002 with approximately 20% of its clearance activities accomplished through Japanese assistance.

Japan has been a major donor in the area of mine clearance in Sri Lanka since 2002, assisting all the four demining NGOs currently operating in Sri Lanka. More than US$ 40.8 million in assistance was rendered towards this cause through its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Project (GGP).

The Japanese Embassy quoted Ms. Cristy McLennan as having stated: “MAG is honoured to accept this grant from the Government of Japan, an esteemed donor for Humanitarian Mine Action projects,both within Sri Lanka and around the world. In the last seven years alone, the partnership between MAG Sri Lanka and the Government of Japan has enabled the removal and destruction of over 14,000 landmines. It has helped many people resettle and rebuild their lives and livelihoods in Mannar, Mullaitivu and Vavuniya districts through its clearance operations. The funding from the People of Japan will not only contribute to saving lives but also building safer futures for the mine-affected and poorest communities in the country. With this continued Japanese support, MAG is looking forward to continuing clearance activities towards the final stage of landmine release in the country in support of the Government of Sri Lanka’s commitment to being mine impact free.”