Illangakoon, Koli, and Fatoumata, Thank You for your commitment!

Wish You all a Very Happy New Year 2014! Although it is the first day of the year, I had to attend a funeral of Mr. D.B.A. Illangakoon at Mundel, Puttlam, my former colleague at Puttlam district. He was instrumental to build up fisheries movement and with his commitment people were able to come out from the many fisheries issues. It is very much famous about the victory of Kappaladiya fishing community and the anchorage point of Kappaladiya. And also, he worked with many fishing communities in Vanathavillu and Katana. All these were very challenging. But, all these were won collectively. Struggle against prawn farms, against the destruction of Norochcholai coal power plant, tourism promotions in Kalpitiya islands were some of the examples of his engagements. Also, we feel there is a big threat to the lives of the fisher leaders as we received disturbing news from Mali and India too. Fatumouta Diarra, of Mali the chair person of artisanal fisher people's association at Bamaco, Mali is passed away last 26th December while N.D.Koli, former General Secretary of National Fish Workers Forum, NFF, in India has been passed away on 31st December. Reyansie has brought the message, Mr. D.B. A. Illangakoon of Sri Lanka, Ms, Fatumouta Diarra of Mali and N.D.Koli of India were committed leaders to the fisher people in our countries. They are no more with us today though their spirit will remain with us for ever. The commitment of those people will be an example to our younger generation to make this world a better place. We pray for all 3 of them to Rest in Peace. Herman