Japan Commits $ 1.3 Mn to Clear Landmines in Sri Lanka

COLOMBO (News 1st); Japan has reaffirmed its longstanding commitment to Sri Lanka’s post-conflict recovery by extending over US$1.34 million (approximately Rs. 400 million) in fresh funding to support humanitarian demining efforts in the Northern and Eastern Provinces.

The initiative marks another significant step in the ongoing effort to restore safety, dignity, and opportunity to communities still living with the legacy of decades of conflict.

The funding, provided under Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) scheme, will help accelerate the clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance, enabling affected families to safely return to their homes and livelihoods.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, Akio Isomata, stressed on Japan’s consistent role as a steadfast partner in Sri Lanka’s journey towards reconciliation and recovery. “The grant assistance signed today is provided under Japan’s GGP scheme. As a committed partner in Sri Lanka’s post-conflict recovery, Japan has extended approximately 49 million US dollars for demining projects since 2002, even before the end of the civil war. Today’s agreement is another testament to our continued support, particularly for communities in conflict-affected areas,” he said.

Ambassador Isomata further highlighted Japan’s broader commitment for 2026, noting that an additional US$1.6 million grant has been approved through the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

This project is expected to strengthen demining capacity, with a special focus on empowering female deminers while enhancing operational efficiency in ongoing field activities.

Combined, Japan’s total contribution toward demining in Sri Lanka this year is expected to reach approximately US$3 million.

Under the latest initiative, nearly 400,000 square metres of land are expected to be cleared of mines, paving the way for more than 3,100 displaced individuals to return to their lands. In addition, around 22,000 people living in surrounding areas stand to benefit by gaining the ability to expand agriculture, rebuild homes, and pursue economic opportunities once restricted by hidden threats beneath the soil.