Sri Lanka has faced severe devastation from Cyclone Ditwah, which caused widespread flooding and landslides across the island, resulting in loss of lives and extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
In response, Canada has announced more than $2 million in humanitarian aid to support emergency relief efforts. The announcement was made today by Hon. Randeep Sarai, Secretary of State (International Development).
The funding package includes:
- $1.4 million to the World Food Programme (WFP) to ensure immediate access to food for affected households.
- $350,000 to World Vision Canada through the Canadian Humanitarian Assistance Fund to provide emergency shelters, relief items, and water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
- $215,000 to support the Sri Lanka Red Cross via the Emergency Disaster Assistance Fund administered by the Canadian Red Cross.
- Nearly $70,000 through the Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to deliver urgent relief assistance.
Canada reaffirmed its solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka and emphasized continued engagement with humanitarian partners to assess evolving needs and support recovery efforts.
“Canada stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka during this difficult time. This support is focused on providing immediate relief, and we remain committed to identifying additional ways to assist as recovery efforts progress,” said Secretary of State Randeep Sarai.
Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree added that Canada will continue providing humanitarian aid to help affected communities recover and rebuild.
Canada has also contributed to pooled humanitarian funds supporting Sri Lanka’s response, including the UN Central Emergency Response Fund, the Red Cross Disaster Response Emergency Fund, and the WFP Immediate Response Account. In the 2024–2025 fiscal year, Canada provided $8.1 million in bilateral development assistance to Sri Lanka.
