Japan Grants Sri Lanka $2.6M to Boost Climate Resilience and Gender Equality

The Japan has reaffirmed its support for Sri Lanka by launching two new development initiatives worth USD 2.6 million, aimed at strengthening climate resilience and promoting gender equality in vulnerable communities.

Funded through Japan’s Supplementary Budget and implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Sri Lanka, the projects are designed to support sustainable recovery, inclusive growth, and long-term resilience across the country.

The first initiative focuses on building a climate-smart dairy sector through a programme titled “Net-Zero, Nature-Positive Dairy.” The project introduces environmentally friendly technologies, sustainable farming methods, and energy-efficient solutions to reduce emissions while increasing productivity. It aims to directly benefit around 750 smallholder farmers and indirectly support over 5,000 individuals, including youth, women, and agricultural professionals.

The programme will be implemented in climate-vulnerable regions such as Kilinochchi and Nuwara Eliya, with guidance from key government institutions including the Ministries of Agriculture, Energy, and Rural Development. With funding of USD 1.5 million, the initiative builds on earlier efforts to modernise rural farming through renewable energy and sustainable practices.

The second project is aimed at enhancing the role of women in mine action, particularly in the Northern and Eastern Provinces. With a budget of USD 1.16 million, it will strengthen the skills, safety, and operational capacity of women deminers working in areas previously affected by conflict.

Special attention will be given to districts such as Mullaitivu and Kilinochchi, where vulnerability levels remain high. The initiative will introduce advanced technologies to improve the efficiency and accuracy of land clearance, enabling safer resettlement and supporting community recovery.

Implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Housing, Construction, and Water Supply and existing mine clearance organisations, the project also seeks to promote gender equality by empowering women to take on critical roles in rebuilding affected regions.

Together, these initiatives highlight the continued partnership between Japan, Sri Lanka, and the UNDP in advancing sustainable development. By supporting climate-smart agriculture and strengthening women’s participation in recovery efforts, the programmes aim to improve livelihoods, enhance human security, and contribute to Sri Lanka’s long-term goal of achieving a resilient and inclusive, net-zero future.