IFAD is one of Sri Lanka’s longest-standing development partners. In 1978, the Kirindi Oya Irrigation and Settlement Project was launched as IFAD’s first investment in the country. The goal was to increase food production, provide employment opportunities and raise rural incomes.

Altogether, IFAD has implemented 19 projects in Sri Lanka, benefiting 654,832 households at a total cost of US$654.57 million (with IFAD providing US$340.49 million in financing).

Today, as Sri Lanka’s economic crisis unfolds, IFAD remains committed to actively engaging in the country, with investments aimed at contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals, specifically in the areas of food security, sustainable agricultural production and productivity, and improved income opportunities for rural households.