By: Isuru Parakrama
October 14, Colombo (LNW): The World Food Programme (WFP) has pledged to continue its ongoing initiatives in Sri Lanka without disruption, ensuring the steady delivery of vital assistance, according to the President’s Media Division (PMD).
This assurance came following discussions between WFP representatives and President’s Secretary Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake at the Presidential Secretariat on the October 11.
During the meeting, the WFP delegation emphasised their commitment to supporting Sri Lanka through both existing and new programmes, despite the country’s food crisis showing signs of easing.
They reiterated that should additional needs arise, the WFP would be ready to provide further assistance to ensure that vulnerable communities remain supported.
The WFP delegation was led by Country Director Abdur Rahim Siddiqui, who was joined by Government Partnerships Officer Musthafa Nihmath and Deputy Country Director Gerard Rebello.
The discussions centred on reinforcing the existing partnership between Sri Lanka and the WFP, which has played a crucial role in alleviating the food insecurity that gripped the country during its economic crisis.
The WFP has been instrumental in delivering essential food aid and nutritional programmes over the past few years, helping the government stabilise the situation for its most affected populations.
Although Sri Lanka has made significant progress in overcoming the worst of its food shortages, the WFP officials acknowledged that challenges remain, particularly for the country’s most marginalised groups.
They assured Sri Lanka of their continued engagement, indicating that future support would be tailored to meet the evolving needs of the population as the country transitions from immediate relief efforts to longer-term food security strategies.
Dr Nandika Sanath Kumanayake, in response, expressed gratitude for the WFP’s unwavering assistance during Sri Lanka’s most critical periods.
He further emphasised the importance of continued collaboration, as the nation works towards securing a more stable food supply and enhancing agricultural productivity.
Also present at the meeting was Roshan Gamage, Additional Secretary to the President, who highlighted the importance of strengthening these collaborative efforts to ensure that Sri Lanka’s recovery remains on track.
