• To provide fin. support and related knowledge as Aswesuma et al. not used for intended purpose, per Govt.
• WFP reaffirms strengthening food systems, improving nutrition including access, building resilience among vulnerable communities amidst persistent challenges in food security/malnutrition 

The upcoming Budget for next year (2026) will focus on empowering families with both financial support and the knowledge that they need to ensure a healthy diet, said Deputy Minister of Rural Development, Social Security, and Community Empowerment, Wasantha Piyathissa.

Speaking to The Daily Morning, he said that although several Government-funded aid programmes such as Aswesuma provide financial assistance, not all families use the money for its intended purpose. “Some families divert these funds to non-essential expenses. What we want is to ensure that households have both the financial support and the knowledge to use it in a way that guarantees good nutrition.”

He said that the new initiative, ‘Praja Shakthi’, would aim to create an economic environment where every family can afford a wholesome meal. “The programme will combine subsidies with education and awareness initiatives to help households make better use of the support provided. The upcoming Budget will give priority to allocating funds for this.”

A recent report prepared by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights revealed that food insecurity triggered by the economic crisis has forced more than half of Sri Lankan households to adopt coping strategies such as skipping meals, eating less preferred food, or limiting portion sizes. The report further stated that over 27% of households consume inadequate diets. 

Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Representative and Country Director of the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) in Sri Lanka Philip Ward, who presented his letter of credentials to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism Vijitha Herath, reaffirmed the WFP’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s efforts to strengthen food systems, improve nutrition, and build resilience among vulnerable communities.

“I am honoured to take up this role at a time when Sri Lanka is navigating both progress and persistent challenges in food security and nutrition,” said Ward. “The WFP remains steadfast in its support to national efforts, working hand in hand with partners to ensure access to nutritious food, especially for those most at risk.” 

Ward and Herath discussed the WFP’s Country Strategic Plan, and Sri Lanka’s progress in reducing malnutrition and strengthening community resilience in the face of climate and economic shocks. Ward emphasised the WFP’s role as a trusted partner in ensuring that no one is left behind on the path to recovery and long-term stability.