Sri Lanka approves Rs. 5.43 billion pandemic preparedness project

The Sri Lankan government has approved a Rs. 5.43 billion project to strengthen the nation’s preparedness and response to pandemics and public health emergencies. The Integrated One Health Pandemic Preparedness and Response Strengthening Project will consist of 35 activities, funded by a Rs. 4.785 billion grant and Rs. 646 million from the Sri Lankan government.

A primary objective of the initiative is to upgrade the physical infrastructure of the National Public Health Investigation Laboratory at the Medical Research Institute (MRI). The broader strategic plan for 2026–2028 includes the establishment of the Sri Lanka Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, which is expected to receive financing from the Asian Development Bank (ADB).

The project aims to address vulnerabilities identified during the COVID-19 pandemic, specifically regarding the coordination between human and animal health sectors. All activities supported by the grant, which was secured through the Pandemic Fund, are scheduled for completion by March 31, 2028.