A Family United by Agriculture
Mr. Nandadewa, based in Ranawarnawa under the Weeravila Agrarian Centre Division, is a shining example of lifelong commitment to farming. His wife, Mrs. M. Karunawathi (age 58), provides unwavering support and courage, managing her own climate-smart home garden with assistance from the Climate Smart Irrigation Agriculture Project (CSIAP). Their shared passion for agriculture has inspired their son, Mr. W. G. Dinesh Chathuranga (age 33), who has also embraced farming under his father’s guidance.

AF Ms. Nuwanthi exchanges ideas with the farmer

Mentorship and Support
Mr. Nandadewa’s success is also attributed to the valuable guidance and mentorship from Mr. H. J. A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor at Mattala, who has worked closely with him. He expresses deep gratitude to Agriculture Facilitator (AF) Ms. K. A. A. Nuwanthi and the entire CSIAP team for their continuous support and encouragement throughout his farming journey.

Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

Cleaning up weeds

The farmer was being guided by AF Ms. Nuwanthi

Dinesh benefited greatly from the guidance and mentorship provided by Mr. H.J.A. Malaka, Agriculture Instructor at Mattala, who worked closely with him. Through the Farmer Business School programme conducted by Mr. Malaka, Dinesh was trained to approach his cultivation not just as a livelihood but as a viable business opportunity. 

Resources for Success
To ensure the success of his cultivation, CSIAP provided Dinesh with key agricultural inputs, including an insect-proof net and a drip irrigation system. With these resources, he successfully cultivated long beans on a quarter-acre plot of land.

Looking ahead
Dinesh is now eagerly awaiting his maiden harvest, a milestone that marks the beginning of a promising future in agriculture. The CSIAP extends its best wishes to Dinesh as he continues to grow as a climate-smart farmer and entrepreneur. His journey is an inspiring example for other young people to follow, proving that with the right support, training, and determination, success in farming is not only possible but rewarding.

 Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

 The Climate Smart Agriculture Project (CSIAP) is committed to transforming young farmers into successful agripreneurs by offering technical and infrastructural support. One inspiring example is Mr. H. A. Prabash Kumara, a 41-year-old farmer from Bathalaara village, located in the Nugayaya Grama Niladhari Division under the Wellawaya Agrarian Service Centre Division. Thanks to his determination and the strategic support from the CSIAP, Mr. Prabash has transformed his farming life and now serves as a role model for others in his community.

Farmer Mr. Prabash Kumara

 Turning Point with the CSIAP Support
Everything changed when the Deputy Project Director’s Office of the CSIAP in Uva Province intervened. The project team identified Prabash’s needs and provided critical support: an agro-well to address chronic water shortages, a sprinkler irrigation system for his turmeric cultivation and an insect-proof net to protect his chilli crops. “These interventions were a real boost for me to move forward,” he says. With improved water access and crop protection, Prabash began cultivating: 1.5 acres of paddy, 3.5 acres of intercropped fields with pumpkin, mango, orange, gotukola, gherkin, tomato, and banana and long-term crops like guava and coconut. He proudly uses only rainwater and the agro-well water for his farming needs and even supplies water to five neighbouring families to help them continue their cultivation.

Managing his livestock

Farmer Mr. Prabash with AF Ms. Kasurika

Gratitude and Recognition
Prabash expresses his deep gratitude to the CSIAP, especially to Ms. W. M. Kasurika, Agriculture Facilitator in Wellawaya, for her unwavering guidance and support throughout his farming journey. He also extends his sincere thanks to Mr. D.V.C. Nishans, former Agriculture Instructor in the Wellawaya area and Mr. D. M. Sashika Priyankara, present Agriculture Instructor, whose technical expertise and dedicated assistance played a crucial role in the successful cultivation of his crops. The combined support and encouragement from three officers have been instrumental in his transformation into a successful agripreneur.

Today, Prabash earns a net profit of Rs. 200,000 per month, a remarkable turnaround from his earlier struggles. His journey is a testament to how targeted support, sustainable practices, and personal determination can change lives and uplift communities.

Farmer Mr. Prabash Kumara spoke with heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing how the CSIAP had transformed his life. “Thanks to CSIAP, my life has turned around, and now I help others grow with me,” he said, reflecting a deep sense of purpose and commitment to his community.

Photographs by Nuwan Dileepa, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, SP&UP, CSIAP
Story by Samantha Mallawaarachchi, IEC&ICT Specialist, PMU, CSIAP

 
A field visit was conducted on 19 May 2025 to the Bundala Wewa Tank, part of the Wilmanna Cascade, under the Bundala Wewa Rehabilitation (Phase II) initiative of the Climate Smart Irrigated Agriculture Project (CSIAP). The objective of the visit was to assess the ongoing rehabilitation works, review environmental and social safeguard compliance, and monitor overall progress.

 The following officials participated in the visit:

• Dr. Sithara Attapattu, Consultant – Environment Safeguard, World Bank
• Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP
• Mr. H.P.T. Sandaruwan, Environment Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Mr. T.D. Bandara, Social Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Technical Team, UP, CSIAP

 Bundala Wewa Tank, located within a wildlife-protected area, is undergoing rehabilitation under CSIAP Phase II to support sustainable agriculture for fifteen (15) beneficiary farmers cultivating 12 acres annually. All necessary approvals have been secured from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWLC), and the beneficiary farmers did not lose their Yala paddy cultivation due to the tank rehabilitation, as the tank bund had already been damaged for the past three years.

 The rehabilitation of the Bundala Wewa Tank was undertaken by W M Siri Construction, with physical works having commenced on 2^nd May 2025. Bundala Wewa Tank — the final reservoir in the Wilmanna Cascade — is now at the heart of a transformative journey. Fed by five upstream tanks before draining into the sea, this once-deteriorating irrigation source is being rehabilitated under CSIAP Phase II to improve the livelihoods of 15 farmers and ensure sustainable cultivation for years to come.

During the visit, the team observed that:

• 
  Construction Progress: Canal works are underway but were temporarily halted due to heavy, unseasonal rainfall. The contractor has adapted by storing materials mid-way within the wildlife boundary due to vehicle access limitations.
• Environmental Management: The site saw minor vegetation clearance; however, vegetation burning was observed and must be immediately addressed. A commendable highlight is the creation of a 30-ft wide temporary wildlife water well within the tank—an excellent step toward wildlife-friendly rehabilitation.
• Wildlife Sensitivity: Bundala Wewa lies within a protected zone managed by the DWLC. Elephant and wildlife activity is common, and tank water is being managed with conservation in mind. No artificial drawdown was necessary due to pre-existing bund damage.
• Safety & Supervision: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) standards are being followed, with the Quality Assurance Inspector also serving as a temporary Safety Officer.

Yet, community involvement remains strong:

• A Social Audit Committee (SAC) is active onsite, including two very committed female members who monitor daily progress.
• SAC maintains a logbook with regular updates and participates in quality control, especially during key construction tasks like concreting.
• Farmers, having successfully completed their Maha crop, are optimistic about resuming year-round cultivation post-rehabilitation.

• A wildlife water well to sustain fauna during construction
• Regular updates to SAC and visible female leadership in monitoring
• Community appreciation and support for the project
• Transparent environmental and safety compliance

Recommendations Going Forward

• Prevent Vegetation Burning: Contractors must be advised and monitored closely to halt this harmful practice.
• Strengthen Environmental Oversight: Regular visits by safeguard officers are essential to uphold E&S standards.
• Maintain the Wildlife Water Feeding Well: This temporary structure must remain until rehabilitation is complete.
• Enhance SAC Capacity: Additional training, especially on grievance handling, will improve local oversight and community trust.
• Sustain DWLC Coordination: Open channels with wildlife authorities are key to ensuring eco-sensitive implementation.
• Bundala Wewa’s story is one of resilience of land, water, wildlife, and people.

 The following officials participated in the visit:

• Dr. Sithara Attapattu, Consultant – Environment Safeguard, World Bank
• Ms. Sharmila Shanmuganathan, Social Safeguard and Gender Development Officer, PMU, CSIAP
• Mr. H.P.T. Sandaruwan, Environment Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Mr. T.D. Bandara, Social Safeguard Officer, UP, CSIAP
• Technical Team, UP, CSIAP

 Murunga Wewa Tank, located within a wildlife-protected area, is undergoing rehabilitation under CSIAP Phase II to support sustainable agriculture for nine (09) beneficiary farmers cultivating 30 acres annually. All necessary approvals have been secured from the Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWLC), and beneficiary farmers have agreed to forego the 2025 Yala season to facilitate uninterrupted rehabilitation work.

The rehabilitation of the Murunga Wewa Tank was undertaken by CJ Construction, with physical works having commenced on 29 April 2025. During the visit, the team observed that:

•  Site Setup: A site office has been established, with machinery and laborers present; however, work was paused due to recent heavy rains.
• Construction Progress: Originally planned for completion in August 2025, the timeline has been extended to September due to unexpected rainfall over the last months.
• Environmental Compliance: Elephant and crocodile activity is common. DWLC regulations are strictly followed, including limiting work hours and retaining 30% of tank water for wildlife. A temporary elephant fence has been installed.
• Road Access: The road to the site remains in poor condition. DWLC has restricted road upgrades to protect the sensitive ecosystem.
• Site Conditions: No trees were removed; minor vegetation clearance was noted. Borrow pits and construction materials were observed; IA test reports are pending.
• Community Involvement: Farmers and SAC members have been engaged from the outset. SAC members were trained on material quality and site supervision. Due to wildlife threats, female SAC members face challenges in on-site participation.
• Livelihoods: An artificial drawdown was conducted. Farmers have requested compensation in the form of green gram seeds, which will be supplied in June.
• Good Practices: Occupational Health and Safety (OHS) measures are in place, and the site logbook is being properly maintained.

Recommendations:

• Provide Livelihood Compensation: Expedite the distribution of green gram or alternative seed support by June 2025.
• Adjust Work Schedule: Re-plan construction to maximise dry weather windows.
• Enhance DWLC Coordination: Maintain daily communication to ensure environmental compliance.
• Safeguard Documentation: Clearly record and justify expenses (e.g., elephant fencing) for accountability and reimbursement.

The Murunga Wewa rehabilitation is progressing despite environmental and logistical challenges, with strong community engagement and adherence to environmental safeguards. The farming community appreciates the project’s support and anticipates full resumption of cultivation following project completion.

The Environment and Social Safeguard Officers provided guidance on addressing these concerns through community consultations and improved grievance redress mechanisms.  Recommendations were made to strengthen monitoring of safeguard compliance and ensure timely communication with stakeholders. The team commended the efforts of the contractor and project staff but emphasised the importance of maintaining standards in line with CSIAP guidelines and World Bank safeguard policies.

 Please click the Field Visit Report to read more.

Mrs. Leelawathi is managing her cultivation

Engaged in traditional farming alongside her husband Mr. K.A. Somathilaka, a farmer, Mrs. Leelawathi cultivates crops during both the Yala and Maha seasons. Her journey with the CSIAP began in 2022, when she sought agricultural guidance. Since then, I have supported her closely by offering technical knowledge, monitoring her fields, and helping her adopt modern farming techniques to enhance her economic stability.

Farmer Mrs. G. Leelawathi

• Organic fertiliser and liquid fertiliser production
  
• Climate-smart agriculture practices
• Vegetable and fruit cultivation
• Home gardening techniques

Mr. Malaka worked diligently to educate Mrs. Leelawathi  on good agricultural practices and provided technical guidance to ensure successful cultivation. His dedicated efforts in guiding farmers have been instrumental in advancing the project's development objectives, and his commitment is truly appreciated. Mrs. Leelawathi also participated in the Farmer Business School programs, gaining valuable insights into the marketing of agricultural products. Recognising her commitment and talent, the project provided her with an insect-proof net, drip irrigation system, poly-mulch for ¼ acre, and a composting kit.

AI Mr. Malaka and AF Ms.Nuwanthi with the farmer

• The insect-proof net raised internal temperatures, reducing pest infestations and plant diseases.
• The drip irrigation system ensured efficient water use and direct fertiliser application.
• The poly-mulch helped retain soil moisture and suppress weeds, further reducing labour and irrigation costs.
• The composting kit enabled her to produce her own compost fertiliser, which she used effectively in her cultivation. This not only reduced her dependency on external inputs but also improved soil fertility and contributed to sustainable farming practices

Her first harvest yielded 650–750 kg of chilli, with a production cost of around Rs. 25,000 and a return of approximately Rs. 150,000—a substantial profit that demonstrates the value of climate-smart agriculture. Mrs. Leelawathi’s story is a testament to the transformative power of knowledge, innovation, and dedication. Her success serves as a model for other farmers in the area.

 Story and photographs by K.A.A. Nuwanthi, Agriculture Facilitator, SP, CSIAP

 Planting a tree is more than just placing a seed in the soil—it is sowing the values of responsibility, care, and respect for the environment. Today, our preschool children, guided by their teachers and parents, have taken part in an act that symbolizes hope, growth, and a greener tomorrow. The event witnessed the enthusiastic participation of 52 children and 6 teachers from both Galakadawala and Gomarankadawala Preschools. In a significant step towards promoting environmental awareness among young learners, 60 Tom E JC mango plants and 60 coconut seedlings were distributed to children to be planted at their homes.

By giving each child a mango or coconut seedling,  the CSIAP encourages hands-on learning and strengthens the bond between families and nature. These small hands planting tiny saplings will one day grow into strong trees, just like our children, growing into responsible citizens of the world. The highlight of the event was the ceremonial tree planting at the preschool premises by the CSIAP official,s including Project Director Mr. Bandulasena and Mr. Sampasivam Naveendrathas, the newly appointed Deputy Project Director of CSIAP for the Eastern Province.

This meaningful programme was coordinated and organised by Mr. T. Sekaran, Social Safeguard Officer of the CSIAP in  Eastern Province, with the aim of officially launching the CSIAP Week in the province. The event emphasised both environmental stewardship and community engagement, aligning with CSIAP's broader goals. Agriculture Facilitators from Gomarankadawala and Pankulam and parents of preschool children also took part, further reinforcing the message of cultivating a greener future through collective action and early education.