Marking the end of the project “Pathways to Peace: Realizing the National Action Plan on Women, Peace, and Security in Sri Lanka”, in-kind assistance ceremonies and Diversity Markets were held from 26h to 29th March in the Districts of Anuradhapura and Batticaloa supporting 206 women entrepreneurs.
The project is supported by the Government of Japan, which provides financial assistance amounting to 1.7 million USD.
Implemented by UN Women in collaboration with Chrysalis and supported generously by the Government of Japan, this initiative made substantial strides in empowering women-led businesses in conflict-affected areas, including Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Mannar, and Mullaitivu.
Through the implementation of the project, over 460 women entrepreneurs have gained valuable skills through targeted training in business planning, financial literacy, and product innovation. These capacity-building sessions have not only helped refine business models but have also been complemented by training on market access and technology transfer, promoting sustainable practices.This partnership reflects Japan’s enduring commitment to gender equality and inclusive progress, aligning with shared goals outlined in the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Women, Peace, and Security Agenda. By fostering pathways to economic empowerment, the initiative contributes to lasting peace and development in Sri Lanka.
The Department of Meteorology says that showers or thundershowers will occur at several places in Western, Sabaragamuwa, Central, Uva and Southern provinces after 1.00 p.m today (May 07).
Fairly heavy falls above 50 mm are likely at some places.
Showers or thundershowers may occur at a few places elsewhere on the island during the afternoon or night.
Showers may occur in the Western province and in Puttalam, Galle and Matara in the morning too.
The general public is kindly requested to take adequate precautions to minimize damages caused by temporary localized strong winds and lightning during thundershowers.
Misty conditions can be expected at some places in Central and Uva provinces and in Ampara and Polonnaruwa districts during the morning.
The Election Commission has released the first official results from the 2025 Local Government polls, with the National People’s Power (NPP) claiming victory in the Tangalle Urban Council, Hambantota District.
Tangalle Urban Council Results National People’s Power (NPP): 2,260 votes (9 seats) Samagi Jana Balawegaya (SJB): 1,397 votes (5 seats) Sri Lanka Podujana Peramuna (SLPP): 795 votes (3 seats) United National Party (UNP): 265 votes (1 seat) Sarvajana Balaya (SB): 177 votes (1 seat)
The JVP-led NPP’s strong showing in this southern urban council marks a significant shift in the region traditionally dominated by the SLPP.
Political analysts note this could signal changing voter sentiments amid economic pressures.
Voting concluded at 4:00 p.m. today after a largely peaceful process.
Counting continues for 338 other local bodies, with results expected through the night.