US funds renovation of Children’s Park in Kilinochchi

Saturday, 11 May 2013 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The US Ambassador Michele J. Sison declared open the renovated children’s park for the residents of Karachchi Kilinochchi on 4 May, funded by the US Government, amounting a value of US$ 97,925 (Rs. 12 million), alongside the Child Development and Women’s Empowerment Minister Tissa Karaliyadda.

Karachchi suffered heavy damage to its infrastructure during the many years of conflict. The newly renovated park will provide a venue for recreation and strengthened peaceful co-existence to over 22,000 families in the area, including many resettled or returnee families. During her remarks at the opening ceremony, Ambassador Sison said: “At a time that Karachchi and its residents are rebuilding, the park will provide space for children, youth and adults to meet; play and build relationships.” The 75-perch park, located on the A9 highway, will also benefit tourists and contribute to the revitalisation of the Kilinochchi District.

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) funded the renovation of the park, which is located in close proximity to a newly constructed market complex in Kilinochchi. Plans are already underway to engage community members and youth groups in Kilinochchi to work together to establish an effective maintenance plan for the park.