UN Provides $4.5 Mn Emergency Aid for Sri Lanka’s Disaster Recovery

COLOMBO (News 1st); The United Nations has pledged its full support to help Sri Lanka rebuild after the devastation caused by recent extreme weather conditions.

This assurance was given by UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André during a meeting with Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath at the Ministry on Monday (8).

In a strong show of solidarity, the UN announced an immediate allocation of USD 4.5 million under its Rapid Response Fund to assist communities affected by the disaster. The symbolic handover of this emergency aid took place during the meeting.

The UN’s assistance will prioritize food security, shelter, clean drinking water, education, healthcare, agriculture, and fisheries, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable populations.

To facilitate this, a five-member OCHA team has already arrived in Sri Lanka to conduct a detailed assessment and coordinate efforts with the Disaster Management Centre.

Minister Herath emphasized the urgent need for sustained international support to revive livelihoods, stabilize the economy, and restore critical sectors such as agriculture.

In response, Marc-André assured that the UN will work closely with its offices in New York and Geneva to mobilize global partners and resources for Sri Lanka’s recovery.