Fertilizer store renovated:

Over 2,000 Ampara farmers benefited

The European Commission (EC), through its implementing partner, the International Organization for Migration (IOM), renovated a fertilizer store at Central Camp, Uhana, in Ampara.

The Central Camp fertilizer store built in 1956 under the Gal Oya scheme was handed over to the Department of Agriculture. In 2000, the Agrarian Services Centre (ASC) took responsibility for the store but as it was in a dilapidated condition and lacked security, farmers were reluctant to make use of the store.

Although the ASC provides subsidized fertilizer, lack of proper storage space either in the community or with ASC has meant that farmers are storing toxic chemical fertilizers in their homes - a clear health and safety issue - or paying for storage elsewhere thereby reducing their net profit. Equally, without proper storage facilities ASC has been unable to purchase large amounts of fertilizer to redistribute in stages, which would be more cost effective and ensure a steady supply, leading to more sustainable livelihoods reconstruction.

The renovation project included main door, roof and window replacements, floor renovation, supply of electricity and whitewashing and painting. A parapet wall and main gate have also been built, along with a drive way for deliveries.

Directly serving 2,289 farmers from 19 GN divisions in Uhana, this renovated fertilizer store made possible by the EC under IOM's community livelihood support program is expected to minimize pre-harvesting losses, decrease operational costs and boost the local economy where the primary source of income is from agriculture.