“Rural Women Lead Initiatives to Combat Economic Crisis in Sri Lanka”

A significant discussion on alternative solutions to the rural economic crisis was held in Higurakgoda on December 14-15, bringing together rural farming women’s organizations from across Sri Lanka. The dialogue, themed “Rural Women’s Discourse on Alternative Solutions to the Rural Economic Crisis,” focused on the crucial role women can play in addressing the escalating rural economic challenges.

The conference highlighted several successful community-level initiatives already being implemented across the island. A key achievement discussed was the victories gained through the Higurakgoda Satyagraha movement, which addressed the microfinance debt crisis affecting local communities.
The gathering explored multiple strategic approaches, including:

• Transitioning from chemical-dependent agriculture to ecological farming methods
• Establishing new market access through village shops, cooperatives, and local markets
• Reviving traditional social systems such as “Attam” (labor sharing), exchange systems, and food voucher programs

The event was enriched by insights from the Timbuktu Collective of Andhra Pradesh, India, which shared 35 years of experience, strengthening the aspirations of Sri Lankan women. Discussions also addressed challenges faced by rural women within the current legal framework of the Northern Cooperative Bank.
Representatives from community-based rural farming women’s organizations across all provinces participated in the dialogue. A significant outcome was the preparation of a proposal document submitted to the government. Deputy Minister of Housing Development T.B. Sarath and Polonnaruwa District Parliamentary members Pathmasiri Bandara and Sunil Rathnasiri attended the event and received the proposals.

The National Collective of Community Finance Savings and Credit Service Providers organized this important dialogue, marking a significant step toward addressing rural economic challenges through women’s leadership and community-based solutions.