World Bank pledges USD 120mn support for Sri Lanka
Posted on December 15th, 2025
Courtesy Hiru News
COLOMBO, December 15, 2025: The World Bank Group has expressed deep sorrow over the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah in Sri Lanka.
In response to the Government’s request, the Bank is making up to US$120 million in emergency support available by repurposing funds from ongoing projects. This assistance will help restore essential services and infrastructure—including healthcare, water, education, agriculture and connectivity—in the areas most severely affected.
The International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, will continue strengthening the private sector through advisory support and strategic investments in key sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing and logistics, including support for MSMEs, to create jobs and drive economic recovery.
To guide recovery efforts, a Global Rapid Post-Disaster Damage Estimation (GRADE) assessment is already underway in partnership with the Global Facility for Disaster Risk Reduction (GFDRR). This rapid assessment will provide credible estimates of disaster impacts to inform early decisions and better target response and recovery efforts.
The Bank is also working closely with the Government as it prepares broader recovery measures, including the Rebuilding Sri Lanka” Fund and the next phase of post-disaster needs assessments.
Our hearts go out to every Sri Lankan affected by Cyclone Ditwah. We are inspired by how communities across the country have come together to support each other during this difficult time,” said Gevorg Sargsyan, World Bank Group Country Manager for Sri Lanka and Maldives. The World Bank Group is committed to helping Sri Lanka restore livelihoods, accelerate economic recovery and rebuild stronger, safer and more resilient communities.”
Looking ahead, the World Bank Group stands ready to work with the Government to mobilise additional resources based on GRADE assessment findings and the financing needs for recovery and resilient reconstruction. We will also make necessary adjustments in our future programs to accommodate the impacts of this crisis.”
The World Bank Group emphasised that support will be delivered quickly, transparently and effectively, with strong oversight mechanisms in place alongside implementing agencies and local authorities.