In Batticaloa, a community market for Muslim women from Caritas
In the village of Iyankerney, in the troubled eastern province, an initiative that creates wealth and strengthens the sense of community through organic farming. The gratitude of the 31 women involved: 'We will continue this work and invite others to do the same'.
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Batticaloa (Asia News) - In the eastern province of Sri Lanka, Caritas recently launched an initiative to make people aware of the value of organic farming for a sustainable economy and future, also distributing equipment and seeds for cultivation.
As part of this initiative, a new community market for income generation through the work of women was inaugurated on 29 June in the Muslim village of Iyankerney, in the Batticaloa area, in the presence of Sr Deepa Fernando, head of the Sustainable Peace and Justice Unit of Caritas Sri Lanka.
"Creating a healthy society that does not consume poisons and is a strength for all to live peacefully together is the ambition of this project of ours," said the director of the Centre for Human and Economic Development at Caritas Eastern Province, Fr S. L. Jayanixon, during the ceremony.
There are 31 Muslim women in Iyankerney who are benefiting from this project, which started in January. They grow produce such as beans, aubergines, green beans, okra, peanuts, which were quickly sold to the community market.
The women of the community expressed their joy at the initiative: "Today is a very happy day for us because for the first time we have opened the market to sell the harvest. Catholic priests, Buddhist clergymen, Muslim dignitaries, Caritas representatives are here with us on this occasion. It is a very beautiful scene".
'For a long time we ate poisonous food, even if it looked good,' Zulfika, a Muslim woman living in Eravurpattu, added to AsiaNews. 'We used to get sick after eating them. But thanks to organic farming, today we and our children eat fresh, healthy vegetables, brought from our gardens for sale. We will continue this work and invite everyone to do the same'.
Hamzia, another Muslim woman, pointed out that thanks to this organic farming project promoted by Caritas, their relationships have also grown, as has their income. "We have been lucky to strengthen our situation at a time of economic crisis," she explained, "That is why we thank all those who have made this project possible.
Representing the Muslims, Kabeer Moulavi praised the efforts of Caritas for his community. "Even the Holy Koran," he said, "indicates that not only Muslims, but all people should maintain good health by consuming healthy food.
"We ask you to continue to work together in your crops, in the market and in any other activity," Sr Deepa Fernando said for her part. Caritas can provide you with financial support and guidance. But using these resources in a peaceful way to strengthen your economy and develop unity among yourselves is a task you must do yourselves," she concluded, praising the enthusiasm and commitment of the Muslim women.
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27/11/2023 16:58
