Gammadda Rebuild Empowers Badulla Cyclone Victims

COLOMBO (News 1st); A new phase of the Gammadda Rebuild programme was launched today (4) in Badulla, bringing renewed hope to affected communities struggling to recover  after the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah.

The initiative, aimed at restoring livelihoods and strengthening the professional capabilities of those impacted, marks a critical transition from emergency relief to long-term empowerment.

It is being carried out with the support of the Minderoo Foundation of Australia, which has partnered with Gammadda to drive sustainable recovery efforts.

In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, MTV / MBC Media Networks, through their relief missions 'Sahana Yathra', provided urgent humanitarian assistance to affected communities over several days.

Building on that foundation, the focus has now shifted toward enabling people to stand on their own feet once again.

As part of a nationwide effort, the Gammadda Care and Dare programme has already been implemented across multiple districts.

The Gammadda Rebuild initiative now represents the third phase of this broader recovery strategy, designed specifically to uplift self-employed individuals whose livelihoods were severely disrupted by the cyclone.

The latest phase of the programme was officially launched at the Badulla Technical College under the patronage of Assistant District Secretary Sajith Herath.

The event brought together key stakeholders, including Badulla Technical College Additional Director M.T.R. Dissanayake, National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority District Manager Chathuranga Abeywardena, Gammedda Assistant Manager Gihan Udyoga, and Eleanor Barker, an intern from the Clinton School of Public Service in the United States, alongside members of the Gammadda team.

Throughout the day, specialized training workshops were conducted for individuals engaged in a wide range of trades, including masonry, carpentry, electrical work, metal fabrication, plumbing, and garment design. The sessions were designed to enhance skills, improve productivity, and open new pathways for economic recovery.

The programme is being implemented in collaboration with the National Apprentice and Industrial Training Authority, the Department of Technical Education and Training, and the Badulla District Secretariat, ensuring a coordinated and impactful approach.

Participants expressed overwhelming appreciation for the initiative, describing it as both transformative and timely.

One woman said, “This is a very good programme. I cannot even find the words to explain how happy we are. It means so much to us.”

As the recovery effort gathers momentum, organizers confirmed that participants will receive certificates and essential tools tomorrow (5), further equipping them to sustain their trades and rebuild their futures.

The Gammadda Rebuild programme stands as a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the enduring spirit of communities determined to rise again after disaster, transforming tragedy into an opportunity for lasting growth and empowerment.