Sri Lanka has launched a new agricultural development initiative aimed at accelerating digital transformation, improving productivity and expanding economic opportunities for farming communities.
Prime Minister Dr. Harini Amarasuriya participated in the launch of the Sri Lanka AgriConnect Joint Implementation Plan in Colombo today, marking a step towards modernising the country's agrifood sector.
AgriConnect is a World Bank Group initiative being implemented through a partnership involving the Government of Sri Lanka, the World Bank Group and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
The programme aims to transform smallholder farming, generate employment opportunities and contribute to global food security. The launch was also attended by Minister of Agriculture, Livestock, Land and Irrigation K.D. Lalkantha, alongside representatives of the World Bank Group and IFAD.
Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Amarasuriya stressed that the development of agriculture is closely connected to the country's overall economic progress.
She highlighted the importance of supporting farmers, strengthening food systems and creating greater opportunities in rural communities to improve economic resilience and achieve sustainable development.
The Prime Minister described AgriConnect Sri Lanka as an important initiative to develop a more productive, resilient and competitive agrifood sector. She also emphasised the need for cooperation among the Government, development partners, the private sector and farming communities to achieve these goals.
Referring to the Government's Public Investment Programme for 2027–2031, she stated that approximately LKR 17.5 trillion had been allocated for public investment over five years, including around LKR 8.3 trillion to support the transition towards a production-based economy.
According to the Prime Minister, these investments are expected to support agriculture, industry, tourism, innovation and digital transformation while improving infrastructure to increase productivity, attract investment and create quality employment opportunities.
She further emphasised that adopting modern technology, encouraging innovation and strengthening strategic partnerships would be essential to developing Sri Lanka's agricultural sector and securing long-term economic growth, the Prime Minister's Office said.
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