The newly appointed Director General of the Disaster Management Center, Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda (Retd) NDC IG, officially assumed duties on the 8th, marking the beginning of his tenure in overseeing disaster preparedness and response efforts in Sri Lanka.
Following a religious ceremony to assume office, Major General Kotuwegoda addressed the staff, emphasizing his commitment to minimizing the impact of disasters on the public. He underscored the importance of disaster mitigation, preparedness, early warning systems, emergency response, and post-disaster relief efforts in collaboration with key institutions. He expressed gratitude to the President, the Deputy Minister of Defense, and the Secretary of Defense for entrusting him with the role.
Drawing from his extensive military background, Major General Kotuwegoda pledged to leverage both his own expertise and the collective knowledge of the Disaster Management Center’s officers to enhance disaster response mechanisms. He highlighted the need for teamwork, camaraderie, and professionalism among all staff members, recognizing their crucial role in protecting communities from natural and man-made disasters.
A highly decorated officer with over three decades of service in the Sri Lanka Army, Major General Kotuwegoda brings extensive experience in strategic leadership, crisis management, and national security. Since joining the military as a Cadet Officer in 1986 and training with the Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment, he has served in multiple key positions, including Brigade Commander, Commanding Officer, General Officer Commanding, Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Artillery Regiment, Security Forces Commander, Commandant of the Sri Lanka Army Volunteer Force, and Deputy Chief of Staff.
His academic credentials include a Master’s Degree in Management and a Master’s Degree in National Security Administration. He has also received specialized military and disaster response training in several countries, including the United States, India, Pakistan, Japan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, and China.
With his appointment, Major General Kotuwegoda is expected to play a pivotal role in strengthening Sri Lanka’s disaster management framework and ensuring effective coordination in times of crisis.
