As part of Phase III of the Sri Lanka Preparedness Partnership (SLPP) for the period 2024–2026 and with financial support from the Asian Disaster Readiness Fund (ADRF) Grant – Pillar I, a series of Subnational Stakeholders Consultation Workshops were conducted in Hambantota, Kegalle, and Anuradhapura in February 2025. These workshops marked a significant step forward in strengthening forecast-based, locally led early warning and early action systems aimed at reaching vulnerable last-mile communities.
Hambantota Consultation – Focus on Landslide Risk
Held on 13th February 2025 at Hotel Blackstone, Hambantota, the first consultation focused on enhancing early warning and early action systems for landslide risks, particularly in the Walasmulla DS Division. The event brought together 41 participants (14 female, 27 male), representing a cross-section of national and subnational government institutions, civil society, NGOs, and the private sector.
The workshop was led by Hambantota District Secretary Mr. Bimal Indrajith De Silva, with coordination from the Assistant Director of DMC – Hambantota. SLPP Co-Chairs, including Major General H. M. Udaya Herath (DMC), Ms. Manori Dissanayake (Ceylon Chamber of Commerce), and Dr. Janaka Hemathilaka (Janathakshan GTE Ltd.), facilitated the discussions. Participants reviewed the district risk profile, explored previously overlooked disaster risks, and collaboratively developed an action plan to improve landslide preparedness and local response systems.
Kegalle Consultation – Strengthening Flood Early Warning Systems
On 20th February 2025, a similar consultation was held at Ambasewana City Hotel, Kegalle, targeting the Dehiovita, Ruwanwella, and Yatiyantota DS Divisions with a focus on upgrading the community-based Flood Early Warning System (FEWS). A total of 48 stakeholders (20 female, 28 male) engaged in interactive sessions and group exercises aimed at enhancing flood risk communication and preparedness.
Coordinated by the Deputy Director of DMC – Kegalle, the workshop was graced by the Additional District Secretary, representing the District Secretary. Participants developed strategies to improve early warning dissemination and response systems, and the three Divisional Secretaries contributed feedback to refine the regional implementation plan.
Anuradhapura Consultation – Promoting Community-Based Disaster Risk Management
The third workshop was held on 21st February 2025 at Four Points Resort, Mihinthale Road, Anuradhapura, focusing on the Medawachchiya DS Division. Emphasizing Community-Based Disaster Risk Management (CBDRM), the session highlighted the importance of anticipatory actions and inclusive local partnerships. The event brought together 31 participants (13 female, 18 male), including representatives from national and subnational government bodies, the private sector, and NGOs.
District Secretary Mr. K. G. Ranjith Wimalasooriya led the session, with coordination by the Assistant Director of DMC – Anuradhapura. SLPP Co-Chairs once again facilitated group discussions that uncovered unseen risks, analyzed institutional roles, and led to the formulation of a comprehensive, localized disaster preparedness action plan.
These consultations underline the SLPP’s commitment to collaborative, community-driven disaster preparedness. By aligning with the National Disaster Management Plan, and supported by the ADRF, the workshops empowered stakeholders at all levels to contribute to more responsive and inclusive disaster risk reduction systems across Sri Lanka.
