Australia, UNFPA step in to protect women, girls after Ditwah

Australia has partnered with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to deliver urgent humanitarian assistance aimed at protecting women and girls affected by the widespread floods and landslides triggered by Cyclone Ditwah — one of the most destructive climate disasters to impact Sri Lanka in recent years.

Australia has contributed AUD 500,000 to strengthen life-saving sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services, gender-based violence (GBV) referral mechanisms, and psychosocial support across 10 severely affected districts. The funding will bolster UNFPA’s USD 8.3 million emergency appeal and one-year response plan, which supports populations disproportionately impacted by the disaster, including pregnant women, new mothers, older women, and women with disabilities.

Through the Australian-funded Regional Prepositioning Initiative, UNFPA has already distributed 700 dignity kits, 200 maternity kits, and cash assistance to 20 pregnant mothers from vulnerable households during the acute response phase.

UNFPA is working closely with the Ministry of Health, local disaster management authorities, the Sri Lanka Red Cross Society, and other partners to roll out a series of targeted interventions. These include mobile health clinics, cash and voucher assistance, rehabilitation of damaged health facilities, and mental health and psychosocial support through strengthened referral pathways.

Australia’s Assistant Minister for Citizenship, Customs and Multicultural Affairs and International Education, Hon. Julian Hill, reaffirmed Australia’s commitment to standing by Sri Lanka during this period of recovery.

“Australia stands with the people of Sri Lanka during this difficult time. Our support through UNFPA will ensure that vulnerable women and girls can access essential health services and protection. Safeguarding dignity and ensuring safety is a priority as communities recover from this disaster,” he said.

Phuntsho Wangyel, UNFPA Officer in Charge for Sri Lanka and Maldives, highlighted the urgent need for continued support.

“Cyclone Ditwah has severely disrupted access to essential sexual and reproductive health services for thousands of women and girls, while also exposing them to a heightened risk of gender-based violence. With Australia’s continued support, UNFPA is scaling up life-saving services, restoring damaged facilities, and providing critical psychosocial support. Together, we are committed to ensuring that no one is left behind.”

Australia’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, H.E. Matthew Duckworth, underscored the importance of the longstanding bilateral partnership.

“Australia and Sri Lanka share a strong partnership built on mutual respect and cooperation. In times of crisis, that partnership matters most. By supporting UNFPA’s response, we are helping ensure that vulnerable women and girls receive the care and protection they need to rebuild their lives with dignity.”