UN launches $35.3M humanitarian plan to assist Sri Lanka after Ditwah
The United Nations and humanitarian partners have launched a Humanitarian Priorities Plan (HPP), seeking USD 35.3 million (LKR 10.9 billion) to scale up life-saving assistance for communities affected by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka.
UN Resident Coordinator in Sri Lanka, Marc-André Franche, said the plan aims to support 658,000 of the most vulnerable people in urgent need of aid between December 2025 and April 2026.The plan follows a formal request for international assistance by the Sri Lankan Government and complements ongoing national efforts by focusing aid on the most severely impacted areas and populations.Franche said the HPP includes support for immediate life-saving needs across sectors such as education; food security, agriculture and nutrition; health; protection; shelter and non-food items; camp coordination; water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); and early recovery.
The plan is based on identified vulnerabilities and findings from the Joint Rapid Needs Assessment conducted with the Disaster Management Centre. A more detailed analysis is also underway to guide additional interventions.Franche highlighted that Cyclone Ditwah caused extensive loss of life and property across the country. “Nearly 2.2 million people were affected, with over 600 deaths recorded so far and around 200 people still missing. More than 91,000 homes have been damaged or destroyed,” he said.
While some families have returned home or sought alternative shelter, more than 85,000 people still remain in safety centres. Ongoing monsoon rains and landslide warnings continue to hinder resettlement in many areas.
“Cyclone Ditwah has hit the poorest and most vulnerable the hardest. It has impacted nearly every aspect of their lives, worsening existing hardships,” Franche said.
He added that the Humanitarian Priorities Plan offers a focused approach to delivering critical aid and supporting early recovery. “We are calling on the international community to stand with Sri Lanka at this crucial moment. Only through continued solidarity and strong support can we help families rebuild their lives with dignity and resilience.”