As part of the Sri Lanka Preparedness Partnership (SLPP) Phase III (2024–2026), SLPP conducted a Subnational Stakeholders Consultation Workshop on 21st February 2025 at Four Points Resort, Mihinthale Road, Anuradhapura. The workshop aimed to strengthen disaster resilience in the Medawachchiya DS Division through Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM) approaches, with a focus on anticipatory actions, participatory decision-making, and local partnerships.
The event was led by District Secretary Mr. K. G. Ranjith Wimalasooriya, who emphasized the importance of building community resilience during emergencies. The Assistant Director of the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) – Anuradhapura District provided district-level coordination support. The workshop facilitated discussions among government institutions, local authorities, civil society organizations (CSOs), and private sector representatives to enhance disaster preparedness in the region.
Representing the SLPP Co-Chairs, Mr. Chathura Liyanaarachchi, Director of Preparedness Planning at DMC Sri Lanka, Ms. Manori Dissanayake, Senior Assistant Secretary General of the Ceylon Chamber of Commerce, and Dr. Janaka Hemathilaka, CEO of Janathakshan GTE Ltd., helped facilitate the multi-stakeholder discussions.
During the workshop, the District Assistant Director of DMC presented the district risk profile, focusing on the disaster risks specific to the Medawachchiya DS Division. In group discussions, participants identified previously unnoticed disaster risks, assessed the responsible institutions, reviewed existing disaster management measures, and proposed alternative solutions. The collaborative effort resulted in an outline for a localized action plan to improve disaster resilience and preparedness in the region.
This initiative was financially supported by the Asian Disaster Readiness Fund (ADRF) Grant – Pillar I, further contributing to enhancing locally led disaster risk reduction efforts in Medawachchiya.
