Dumbara Haritha Saviya Introduces a Governance Structure for Integrated Watershed Management in the Knuckles Region
Introductory meeting held on 1st October 2025 at the Swiss Dale Hotel, Matale, to introduce the proposed watershed management structure under the Knuckles Project, aimed at fostering integrated and sustainable watershed management.
In a major step toward sustainable environmental management, the Dumbara Haritha Saviya Project under the Green Climate Fund (GCF) has introduced a comprehensive Sub-Watershed Governance Structure designed to enhance integrated watershed management in the Knuckles region, covering the Matale and Kandy districts.
The introductory and stakeholder consultation program was successfully held at the Swissdale Hotel in Matale, with the participation of a wide range of stakeholders representing government agencies, partner institutions, and community groups. The event was graced by Hon. Gamagedara Disanayaka, State Minister of Buddhasasana, Religious and Cultural Affairs, and Chairman of the Matale District Coordinating Committee. Also present were Mr. L.P. Madanayaka, District Secretary of Matale; senior officials from the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Lands and Irrigation; and Ms. Chandika Ethugala, National Project Director of the Dumbara Haritha Saviya Project.
More than 100 representatives from key state institutions, including District and Divisional Secretaries, Directors of Planning, and Assistant Secretaries, attended the session. The meeting focused on the urgent need for a structured, collaborative, and effective approach to managing the Knuckles sub-watersheds, ensuring the protection and sustainable use of the region’s vital natural resources.
Delivering the opening presentation, Ms. Chandika Ethugala outlined the objectives and significance of the proposed governance structure, emphasizing the importance of coordinated management for long-term watershed resilience. Mr. Nimal Gunasena, Project Consultant, provided a detailed explanation of the operational framework and implementation strategy, followed by an interactive discussion moderated by Mr. Vikum Rajapaksha and Mr. Thusara Nayanananda, where participants shared insights and recommendations for improving local-level governance mechanisms.
The session also featured a presentation by Dr. Lakshman Rodrigo and Mr. Navarathna Kandegama from the International Council for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF), a key partner institution of the project. They introduced the concept of an Inter-Institutional Committee for Green Valuation, underscoring the importance of recognizing the ecological and economic value of watershed services through institutional collaboration.
In addition, the Media and Communication Unit of the Dumbara Haritha Saviya Project showcased a series of educational, environmental, and cultural programs implemented across schools and rural women’s groups in the Matale and Kandy districts. These initiatives reflect the project’s strong community engagement approach and its commitment to raising awareness on sustainable land and water management.
Concluding the event, Ms. Chandika Ethugala expressed gratitude to all participants for their valuable contributions and confirmed that the Sub-Watershed Governance Structure and Green Valuation Committees would be established promptly, incorporating stakeholder feedback and recommendations.
This milestone marks a significant advancement in building a coordinated and inclusive governance framework for the Knuckles region—one that fosters collaboration, promotes green valuation, and safeguards the integrity of its watershed ecosystems for future generations.
“Through collective action and sustainable governance, we can ensure the long-term health of our watersheds and the wellbeing of the communities that depend on them.”
