The Government of Japan and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), together with the Government of Sri Lanka, have launched a US$1.33 million project to restore inland fisheries and support cyclone-affected fishing communities in the Eastern Province.

The project will run from June 2026 to November 2027 in Ampara, Batticaloa and Trincomalee, targeting communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.

According to FAO, the initiative will directly support 1,504 fishers across 30 reservoirs through fish restocking, floating rearing cages and other measures aimed at rebuilding fish stocks and strengthening livelihoods.