This was Seacology’s third tsunami relief grant to the Small Fishers Federation of Lanka (Sudeesa). Sudeesa will use it to replace destroyed fishing boats and gear used by local fishers. These motorized boats were made in cooperation with the country’s Department of Fisheries, and meet the standards for Sri Lanka fisheries.
Fishing family co-ops, which are legally registered with the ministry of fisheries and use sustainable fishing techniques, manage the boats. Three family members own and run each boat. Fishing provides food and income to household that consist, on average, of five members. Construction of the boats began in October 2006.