by Roy Denish
Japan and UNDP launch Cyclone Ditwah recovery project to restore services, clear disaster waste, and rebuild affected Sri Lankan communities.
Cyclone Ditwah recovery efforts received a major boost in Sri Lanka as Japan and the United Nations Development Programme partnered with the Government of Sri Lanka to support affected communities through disaster waste management and community rehabilitation.
The new initiative is expected to help thousands of people impacted by Cyclone Ditwah by clearing waste, restoring essential services, and rebuilding stronger community infrastructure in some of the worst-hit areas.
Colombo, Sri Lanka, 10 June 2026: The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka, signed a new project today to accelerate recovery in communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah.
The initiative, titled “the Project for Disaster Waste Clearance and Rehabilitation of Community Facilities through Participatory Approach in Communities Affected by the Cyclone,” aims to restore access to essential services, address urgent environmental risks, and strengthen community resilience.
The project was formally signed by His Excellency Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, and Ms. Azusa KUBOTA, Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka.
The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. S. Alokabandara, Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, together with representatives from other Government institutions and partner organisations.
Following the devastating impact of Cyclone Ditwah in late November 2025, which affected an estimated 1.7 million people nationwide, the project represents a critical step in linking humanitarian response with long-term recovery.
The initiative will particularly focus on the Central Province, one of the hardest-hit regions.
Through an integrated approach, the project will support the collection and management of disaster-related recyclable and light waste using electric three-wheelers.
It will also rehabilitate multi-purpose community facilities that provide essential services, including healthcare, education, childcare, and social support.
The project is expected to directly benefit approximately 228,500 people, while another 700,000 community members will benefit indirectly through improved access to services and stronger waste management systems.
Commenting on the initiative, His Excellency Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka, said, “A whole-of-nation approach, involving all sectors of society, is essential to effective disaster risk reduction and management. This project aims to support recovery through a participatory and sustainable approach, thereby strengthening community resilience. By encouraging local communities to participate in the implementation of the project in such a way to empower themselves, we can strengthen social cohesion and enhance resilience to disaster. Guided by the concept of ‘Build Back Better,’ Japan will continue to work closely with Sri Lanka in strengthening its preparedness, response, and recovery capacities to help Sri Lanka become even more resilient to future disasters.
“The government and people of Japan will continue to stand alongside the people of Sri Lanka as its steadfast friend and partner in support of the country’s journey on the path for sustainable development and resilient society.”
Highlighting Sri Lanka’s recovery efforts, Mr. S. Alokabandara, Secretary, Ministry of Public Administration, Provincial Councils and Local Government, said, “This project marks an important milestone in our national recovery efforts following Cyclone Ditwah. By restoring critical community infrastructure and improving waste management systems, we are ensuring that affected communities can regain access to essential services and rebuild their lives with dignity. The Government of Sri Lanka deeply values this partnership as we work together to strengthen resilience and promote inclusive recovery.”
Ms. Azusa KUBOTA, Resident Representative of UNDP in Sri Lanka, added, “Recovery is not merely about rebuilding what was lost. Rather, it is about building forward better. Through this initiative, UNDP will be working with communities to restore critical services and further strengthen resilience to future shocks. Our partnership with the Government of Sri Lanka and the Government of Japan reflects a shared commitment to inclusive, sustainable recovery that leaves no one behind.”
The project will focus on the Central Province, including Kandy, Matale, and Nuwara Eliya districts, where communities suffered significant infrastructure damage, service disruptions, and disaster debris accumulation.
In addition to addressing immediate recovery needs, the initiative will create livelihood opportunities through community-based waste collection and facility rehabilitation.
The project places particular emphasis on engaging women and vulnerable groups in the recovery process.
It also supports Sri Lanka’s wider efforts to strengthen climate resilience, improve waste management systems, and promote sustainable, inclusive development pathways in line with national priorities.
