In celebration of International Women’s Day 2026, electric bikes (e-bikes) were distributed, today (09.03.2026) to informal waste collectors (IWCs) in Kurunegala under the Strengthening Women and Youth Engagement in Informal Waste Management in Sri Lanka (SWYFT) Project, implemented by Janathakshan
The event took place at the North Western Province Provincial Council, with the participation of the Chairman of the Kuliyapitiya Pradeshiya Sabha, the Chairman of the Narammala Pradeshiya Sabha, the Provincial Commissioner of Local Government, other government officials, and representatives from Janathakshan.
Aligned with the International Women’s Day 2026 theme “Give to Gain,” the initiative highlighted the importance of investing in women and local communities to create broader social and environmental benefits. By providing tools and opportunities that strengthen women’s economic participation, communities can achieve more resilient and sustainable development outcomes.
During the event, Ms. Nadeesha Lakmali, representing Narammala, and Mr. Sampath Thilakasiri, representing Kuliyapitiya, symbolically received the e-bikes on behalf of the informal waste collectors. While the initiative celebrated women’s empowerment through the distribution of e-bikes to women IWCs, additional e-bikes were also provided to male informal waste collectors, recognizing the important role both women and men play in strengthening local waste management systems.
The provision of e-bikes is expected to significantly improve the efficiency of waste collection activities, enabling informal waste collectors to expand their collection areas, increase the volume of recyclable materials recovered, and improve their daily income. At the same time, the initiative contributes to environmental conservation efforts by promoting better waste collection and recycling practices.
By empowering informal waste collectors with improved mobility and livelihood opportunities, the initiative demonstrates how giving support to communities leads to wider social, economic, and environmental gains, reflecting the true spirit of the “Give to Gain” theme of International Women’s Day.
Janathakshan continues to work closely with local authorities, partners, and communities to strengthen inclusive waste management systems while improving the livelihoods of informal waste collectors across Sri Lanka.
