In an era where healthcare demands continue to rise, Sri Lanka’s Health and Mass Media Minister, Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, has announced a significant initiative that not only promises better care for cancer patients but also reaffirms the government’s growing commitment to the nation’s health sector. A seven-storey building complex named “Ashinsa Madura”, or Cancer Home, is set to rise on the grounds of the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital—an effort rooted in compassion and collaboration between the state and the people.
At a planning meeting held recently at the Ministry of Health, Minister Jayatissa emphasized that this year’s budget includes the highest allocation ever made to the health sector by any government to date. It’s a declaration of priorities that comes at a time when Sri Lanka is grappling with the dual burden of expanding healthcare needs and constrained public resources. According to the Minister, the government has not only prioritized healthcare funding, but is also ensuring that it is deployed efficiently and transparently.
The “Ashinsa Madura” project, though initiated by the Ministry, is being made possible largely through the generosity of the North West Cancer Society, a community-driven organization. The society has pledged to fully fund the construction of the ground floor and first floor of the building, with additional contributions toward upper floors. In total, the complex is estimated at Rs. 1.2 billion, with the initial phase set to cost Rs. 455 million.
Designed with dignity and care in mind, the facility will provide residential treatment for 120 cancer patients, including children and clergy. The blueprint outlines dedicated wards for men and women, dining areas, inpatient rooms, doctor accommodations, and a fully equipped modern auditorium. For many, this building represents more than a hospital—it’s a sanctuary offering humane and holistic care for those battling one of the deadliest diseases of our time.
Dr. Jayatissa did not shy away from acknowledging the past. He highlighted that many government hospital premises house abandoned or half-completed construction projects—monuments to stalled promises. The Minister stressed that reviving and completing such projects is now a key priority under the new government agenda.
Cancer remains a critical public health concern in Sri Lanka. With nearly 33,000 new cases diagnosed annually and close to 19,000 deaths, the disease casts a long shadow over thousands of families. Oral cancer among men and breast cancer among women remain the most common, prompting urgent calls for awareness campaigns and preventive strategies. Jayatissa underscored the necessity of educating the public and implementing targeted interventions to shift the trajectory of cancer outcomes in the country.
But perhaps the most symbolic message came not from policy but from partnership. By working alongside civil organizations like the Wayamba Cancer Society, the government is not only reducing its financial burden, but also fostering a sense of collective responsibility. Minister Jayatissa extended heartfelt gratitude to all those contributing to the project, noting that such gestures reflect the spirit of shared nation-building.
Attendees at the planning meeting included top ministry officials, hospital directors, and representatives from the Wayamba Cancer Society, including its Chairman Nimal Ekanayake, secretaries, treasurers, and senior consultants.
As Sri Lanka takes this bold step toward better cancer care, the seven-storey Ashinsa Madura building stands to become more than just concrete and steel. It is a rising symbol of a nation’s resolve to heal, to hope, and to honor every life that enters its walls.
