Colombo, Sri Lanka – The United Nations has welcomed Sri Lanka’s elevation to Upper Middle Income status in the World Bank’s latest Country Income Classification, describing it as an important milestone while stressing that many communities are yet to experience the benefits of the country’s economic recovery.
Following a recent visit to Monaragala District, UN Resident Coordinator Marc-André Franche highlighted the ongoing hardships faced by farming families due to rising production costs, water shortages, and climate-related challenges, which continue to threaten food security and rural livelihoods.
The UN also noted that many households remain food insecure, particularly in areas affected by Cyclone Ditwah, and emphasized the need to strengthen social protection programmes and support vulnerable communities.
During the visit, the UN delegation observed the Home-Grown School Feeding Programme, implemented in partnership with the Government and the World Food Programme (WFP). The initiative supports smallholder farmers by providing a stable market for their produce while ensuring thousands of schoolchildren receive nutritious daily meals.
The United Nations reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Government and development partners to strengthen livelihoods, improve food security, and ensure that Sri Lanka’s economic progress reaches every community across the country.
