December 11, Colombo (LNW): The United Nations has launched a fresh appeal to bolster Sri Lanka’s post-cyclone recovery, aiming to gather roughly US$35 million over the next few months to help restore essential services and support affected communities.
At a briefing in Colombo on Thursday, the UN’s top representative in the country, Marc-André Franche, explained that the organisation had worked closely with the Disaster Management Centre to map out urgent needs across seven key areas, following the havoc wrought by Cyclone Ditwah. Roads, housing, health services and livelihoods are among the sectors identified for swift assistance.
Franche stressed that the Sri Lankan government remains at the forefront of the relief operation, with the UN and a network of local and international partners stepping in to reinforce national efforts where required.
He also revealed that contributions totalling nearly US$10 million have already come through from a group of supporting nations, including Australia, Canada, members of the European Union, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and the United States. According to him, a further US$26 million will be sought through a coordinated push designed to ensure that aid reaches the most vulnerable communities efficiently.
In addition to immediate relief, Franche hinted that the UN hopes this funding drive will help Sri Lanka build greater resilience against future climate-driven disasters, noting that the scale of destruction caused by Cyclone Ditwah underscores the urgency of long-term preparedness.
