The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has intensified its emergency operations in Sri Lanka in response to Cyclone Ditwah, backed by an AUD 1.5 million contribution from the Government of Australia.
The funding enables WFP to provide life-saving fortified food and cash assistance to families severely affected by the disaster. The first airlift of fortified biscuits from WFP’s humanitarian hub in Dubai has already arrived, with up to 67 metric tonnes expected in the coming days.
Initial distributions of fortified biscuits have been dispatched to Nuwara Eliya and Kegalle, with additional deliveries underway in Badulla and Kandy, districts among the most impacted.
“Australia stands with Sri Lanka at this devastating time,” said Australian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Matthew Duckworth. “We are proud to support WFP and work with the Sri Lankan government and local authorities to respond rapidly to urgent needs.”
WFP’s fortified biscuits are designed to provide an immediate boost of energy and nutrition to vulnerable populations.
“As rescue operations wind down, our focus is on delivering food to those most at risk—children, the elderly, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and people with disabilities,” said Philip Ward, WFP Representative and Country Director in Sri Lanka.
In addition to food supplies, Australia’s contribution will support cash-based assistance, complementing national efforts to help affected families meet essential needs and begin recovery. WFP continues to seek additional donor support to maintain emergency relief and assist long-term recovery in cyclone-hit areas. (Newswire)