Fri Jan 23 13:16:40 UTC 2026: ### Sri Lanka Receives \$27.5 Million in Foreign Aid After Cyclone Ditwah Devastation

The Story:
Sri Lanka has received LKR 8.5 billion (approximately \$27.5 million) in foreign aid to support reconstruction efforts following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in late November 2025. The funds, contributed by 47 countries, will be used for relief programs aimed at helping individuals and businesses recover and rebuild. The United States is the largest donor, contributing LKR 1 billion in assistance, followed by Australia. The island nation also received \$9.49 million in foreign currencies.

Key Points:

  • Sri Lanka received LKR 8.5 billion (\$27.5 million) in foreign aid for post-cyclone reconstruction.
  • 47 countries contributed, with the U.S. being the largest donor (LKR 1 billion).
  • Cyclone Ditwah struck in late November 2025, killing over 640 people and causing widespread damage.
  • LKR 21.3 billion worth of goods were received and are being cleared without customs duties.
  • LKR 45 billion in insurance claims were received, with LKR 4.5 billion cleared for 24,000 claims.
  • India announced a \$450 million assistance package, including \$350 million in concessional Lines of Credit and \$100 million in grants.
  • 6,228 houses were fully damaged, and 101,055 were partially damaged, leaving 66,132 people in shelters.
  • The UNFPA is supporting the restoration of a damaged hospital in Chilaw.

Key Takeaways:

  • The international community responded swiftly to the disaster in Sri Lanka, providing significant financial assistance.
  • The scale of the damage from Cyclone Ditwah is substantial, requiring extensive reconstruction efforts.
  • India’s substantial aid package underscores its commitment to supporting Sri Lanka’s recovery.
  • The focus on restoring critical infrastructure, such as the hospital in Chilaw, highlights the urgency of addressing essential needs.

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