The project aims to enhance resilient livelihoods and improve food security for subsistence farmers in critical upstream and downstream rural communities in Sri Lanka. It strengthens adaptive capacity to climate-induced changes while safeguarding ecosystem services that connect these landscapes. The project adopts a three‑pronged approach focused on improving physical infrastructure, establishing sustainable financing mechanisms, and advancing climate‑adaptive land management.
Key activities include participatory governance, adoption of climate‑resilient land‑management options, establishing payment for ecosystem services (PES) systems, value‑chain upgrading, and product development. A participatory exit strategy will ensure long‑term sustainability of project outcomes. Expected measurable benefits include the adoption of diversified, climate‑resilient livelihoods by approximately 1.34 million people and the protection of 346,000 ha of upland and lowland agricultural and natural ecosystems from climate variability and change.
ICRAF has played a pivotal role from project design through inception and implementation, working closely with the GCF, IUCN, and the Ministry of Environment of Sri Lanka, and later with the Ministry of Irrigation as the executing agency.
