Japan funds rural development project

The Government of Japan has provided $ 45,551 (approximately Rs. 5.9 m) grant aid for a rural infrastructure development project in the Moneragala district under its Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP).

A spokesman for the Japanese Embassy said that a multipurpose centre in Unawatuna, Buttala, in the Moneragala district will consist of a community hall, library, preschool, health clinic centre and offices for the public health inspector and Grama Niladhari. A children's park will also be constructed.

"The project will be implemented by the Dimuthu Community Development Society and it would improve the living conditions of 2,000 families directly and 3,000 families indirectly," he said.

President of the Society, Ven. Nagolle Nandarathana Thera said that having a multipurpose building for the underprivileged community in the area was a much felt need. The people had to travel from one place to another to get different services. This building will be a great asset for the community as they can obtain all services under one roof.

On behalf of the diadvantaged community, Ven. Nandarathana Thera expressed his gratitude to the Government of Japan and its people for providing financial assistance to construct the building in Unawatuna, Buttala.

The grant contract between Ambassador of Japan Nobuhito Hobo and the Community Development Society President Ven. Nagolle Nadarathana Thera was signed on September 26, at the Ambassador's residence in Colombo.