UN delegation backs financing framework for Ditwah-hit businesses

Tuesday, 24 February 2026 04:40 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

As part of a joint initiative between the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP), a special technical delegation visited Sri Lanka from 16 to 20 February 2026.

Accordingly, a delegation from the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) and the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) arrived in the country to support the design of a sustainable and financially responsible financing mechanism for micro, small and medium-scale industrialists and businesses affected by Cyclone Ditwah. On 19 February, the delegation met with relevant Government stakeholders to discuss matters pertaining to the initiative.

The meeting was held under the patronage of Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Deputy Minister Chathuranga Abeysinghe. Officials representing the National Enterprise Development Authority (NEDA), the Small Enterprise Development Division (SEDD), the Industrial Development Board (IDB), and the National Credit Guarantee Institution Ltd., (NCGIL) were also present.

Discussions focused extensively on key measures required to build a sustainable economic future for Sri Lanka’s micro, small and medium-scale industrialists and entrepreneurs. Special attention was given to strengthening risk mitigation capacity, enhancing resilience and recovery capabilities, and improving financial literacy.

Among those in attendance were Secretary to the Industry and Entrepreneurship Development Ministry Secretary Thilaka Jayasundara, UNCDF Asia-Pacific Regional Team Leader Maria Perdomo, UNCDF Investment Officer Anil Birla, and UN Peacebuilding Support Office (PBSO) Peace Finance Adviser Donata Garrasi, along with several other officials.