Dumbara Haritha Saviya (GCF-Knuckles Project) Strengthens Rural Green Entrepreneurship in Matale and Kandy
KANDY: 25.10.2025
The Dumbara Green Empower Project has taken a major step toward revitalizing rural green entrepreneurship in the Matale
and Kandy districts by promoting sustainable land management and developing green markets within the Knuckles Mountain Range. A special awareness program for stakeholders expressing interest under the project’s capacity development initiative was successfully held recently at the Oak Ray Regency Hotel in Kandy. The event aimed to strengthen collaboration among government agencies, private sector representatives, and community organizations involved in sustainable agriculture and environmental management.
Over 80 Participants Engage in Awareness Program
The program was organized under the guidance of Mrs. Chandika V. Ethugala, National Project Director of the Dumbara Green Empower Project and Additional Secretary (Lands) of
the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock Development, Lands and Irrigation. The one-day workshop drew wide participation, including Matale District Secretary Mr. L.P. Madanayake, officials from various state institutions in Matale and Kandy, representatives from partner organizations, non-governmental organizations, and private entrepreneurs. More than 80 participants responded to the Expressions of Interest (EOIs), surpassing project expectations.
Focus on Sustainability and Market Access
Implemented under the supervision of Minister Lal Kantha and Ministry Secretary D.P. Wickramasinghe, the Dumbara Green Empower Project focuses on three main pillars: Sustainable Land Management (SLM), Enhancement of Green Value Chains (GVCs), and Market Access for Smallholder Producers. The workshop provided a platform for participants to share experiences and gain a deeper understanding of the project’s Theory of Change, highlighting how local expertise and collaboration can contribute to long-term environmental and economic progress. Participants also discussed green value addition and entrepreneurial innovation opportunities within regional ecosystems to strengthen sustainable enterprise development.
E-Commerce Opportunities for Green Products
The event also explored new ways to link smallholder producers to global markets through e-commerce platforms, opening fresh opportunities for rural entrepreneurs to market and sell eco-friendly products beyond local boundaries. Interactive group discussions focused on how digital platforms and market-driven models can empower small producers and enhance resilience in the face of climate change challenges.
Officials Praise the Project’s Broader Vision
Addressing the event, Matale District Secretary Mr. L.P. Madanayake commended the project’s wide-reaching environmental vision and its significant role in safeguarding rural livelihoods. He highlighted that the Dumbara Green Empower Project has implemented numerous programs aimed at protecting green livelihoods and supporting climate adaptation among communities in Matale and Kandy. Mr. Madanayake further praised Mrs. Chandika V. Ethugala for her leadership in steering the project forward despite various administrative and external challenges, noting that the government deeply values her commitment and direction.
Project Director Highlights Continued Progress
In her remarks, Mrs. Chandika V. Ethugala outlined the project’s core objectives and reaffirmed the Ministry’s dedication to achieving them. She noted that both the Minister and the Secretary of the Ministry have extended special attention and support to ensure the project’s success. Despite facing climate-related and operational challenges, the Dumbara Green Empower Project continues to progress steadily. Mrs. Ethugala recognized the valuable contributions of IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) and ICRAF (World Agroforestry Centre), emphasizing that their partnership has been instrumental in achieving project milestones. She further expressed confidence that the project will guide rural communities toward climate-resilient, sustainable green livelihoods across the Dumbara region.community-based organizations.
Multi-Sectoral Participation Strengthens Impact
The program also saw the participation of additional district secretaries, divisional heads from Matale and Kandy, leaders of partner organizations, and representatives from non-governmental and community-based organizations.
A large number of small and medium-scale entrepreneurs joined the discussions, showcasing strong regional interest and collaboration in advancing green enterprise development.
A Model for Sustainable Development
The Dumbara Green Empower Project stands as a model for integrated environmental management, climate resilience, and rural innovation — merging sustainability, entrepreneurship, and ecological balance to create a greener and stronger Sri Lanka.