By Nuzla Rizkiya

Sri Lanka’s estate sector community is likely to receive significant multinational support, with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) looking to extend its assistance to improve the social and economic conditions of the estate communities.

In a recent notice published in the media, the agency announced plans to carry out a survey to assess the current status of the management and living conditions of the estate workers. 

“Currently, we are seeking for a consultant/consulting firm for a data collection survey for improving the social and economic status of the estate community in Sri Lanka for considering the JICA’s future activities in the estate sector,” the notice stated. 

The survey will focus on evaluating the business models of the existing estate management types, including the Regional Plantation Companies, Janatha Estate Development Board, Sri Lanka State Plantations Corporation and smallholders. 

Moreover, the survey will also gather information on the recommended future business models for the sector, which will assist the agency to build up a foundation for targeted interventions in areas that need improvement. 

Additionally, the study will recommend strategies to improve infrastructure, particularly in road maintenance, water supply and sanitation facilities for the estate communities.

As per the notice, the data collection initiative is expected to run for approximately three months, starting in December 2024 and continuing through March 2025, on a contract basis.

As the official implementing agency of Japan’s bilateral assistance programmes, the JICA’s commitment to supporting Sri Lanka has been long-standing, especially in terms of ODA loans, technical assistance and grant aids.

The agency has been involved in various ongoing initiatives in the country, targeting key areas such as rural development, infrastructure development and the overall well-being of communities.

The current projects include improving transportation networks, strengthening power, water and environmental systems and supporting the agrarian and fishing communities.

The agency is also involved in various programmes to address human resource development, policy reforms and institutional improvements.  

Additionally, the JICA is also focused on climate change mitigation, disaster risk reduction, improving livelihoods in conflict-affected areas and improving social services such as health, education and welfare in Sri Lanka.