Attachments
Key learning insights
- Local authorized participants in Karachchi achieved in average an 83% improvement in rapid needs assessments (RNA) scores and a 37% improvement in DRR scores, demonstrating enhanced understanding of hazard and needs assessments. Participants in Addalachchanai showed a more modest improvement, with a 21% and 11% increase in RNA and DRR scores respectively.
- Training content was effectively utilized during the December 2024 flooding, with participants in Karachchi applying GIS mapping and risk assessment tools to collect and analyze critical data. Participants from Addalachchanai experienced external challenges (e.g., flooding of their homes) which limited their capacity to apply learnings from the training.
- High levels of motivation, contextual application, and teamwork were observed, with female participants actively assuming leadership roles.
- Challenges such as technical delays, limited practical learning, and inadequate access to laptops and reliable internet hindered the full application of training materials and knowledge acquisition. These elements will be addressed for the next sessions of the training program.
Introduction
The 2022 economic crisis in Sri Lanka, exacerbated by COVID-19, hyperinflation, and job losses, intensified hardships for vulnerable communities, leaving over 5 million people in need. Agriculture and fisheries, employing over 30% of the population, were severely affected by climate-induced disasters like droughts, floods, and landslides, highlighting the urgent need for disaster resilience.
Disaster risk reduction (DRR) in Sri Lanka faces significant challenges, particularly due to gaps in disaster data systems. Local authorities face challenges related to infrastructure limitations, capacity gaps in data collection, and the need to enhance inter-departmental coordination. The lack of reliable, disaggregated data on hazards, exposure, and disaster impacts hinders informed decision-making, as evidence by the December 2024 flooding.
To address these gaps, a capacity-strengthening training program was developed to improve the disaster response of local authorities and community organizations. The training introduces a risk assessment tool for evidence-based decision-making and aims to strengthen skills in risk data management, rapid needs assessments, and community-driven mitigation actions. It aims to empower communities to identify hazards and implement localized solutions, complementing AGORA’s activities related to area-based risk assessments (ABRA) and livelihood resilience assessments (LRA).