Sri Lanka: Coordinate community empowerment efforts, minister urges

Minister of Rural Development, Social Protection, and Community Empowerment, Dr. Upali Paninna, has called for enhanced coordination among all state institutions responsible for community empowerment and social protection. The directive came during a review meeting of the "Community Shakti" program, a key government initiative aimed at eradicating poverty, empowering communities, and ensuring economic justice.

The "Community Shakti" program has made significant progress, with approximately 23,000 projects implemented using 23 billion rupees allocated from the 2026 budget. Minister Paninna emphasized the potential to complete all these projects within the current year. Additionally, 2 billion rupees have been earmarked for special model projects and entrepreneurship development initiatives. Projects identified through these programs are expected to be integrated into the "Community Shakti" initiative in the future.

The meeting, co-chaired by President's Secretary Dr. Nandika Sanath Kumaranayake, reviewed the program's progress in 2026 and discussed plans for 2027. The focus remains on poverty alleviation and fostering economic fairness through community-driven initiatives.

Minister Paninna stressed the importance of a unified approach, ensuring that efforts to empower communities and provide social safety nets are integrated and efficient. The program aims to create a more equitable society by providing resources and opportunities for vulnerable populations.