Supporting Sustainable Livelihoods for 40 Women in Polikandy with Revolving Loans and Training

Vanni Hope is proud to announce the successful implementation of a vital economic empowerment initiative, supporting women-led microenterprises through a Revolving Loan Fund in Polikandy West, Jaffna District. This project, part of our ongoing efforts to uplift war-affected communities in Northern Sri Lanka, was carried out in partnership with the Maananganai Women Rural Development Society and was funded by the Navarasa Fashion Show fundraiser organized by TARI by Gayatri.

Investing in Women’s Livelihoods

During recent engagements with community leaders and local development societies, Vanni Hope identified a clear need: economically active women were eager to start or expand micro-businesses but lacked access to capital, training, and market linkages.

To address this, Vanni Hope launched the Capacity Building and Empowerment Project, providing:

• Initial microcredit support (Rs. 30,000 each) to 35–40 women
• Business training in financial literacy, bookkeeping, revenue calculation, marketing, and leadership
• Operational materials and stationery to enhance society functioning
• Ongoing monitoring, mentorship, and best practices documentation

These funds were disbursed with a minimal 3–5% interest over ten months, enabling the creation of a sustainable revolving fund that will continue to support new women-led businesses in the future.

Fostering Long-Term Community Resilience

The project directly benefits over 40 women and their families, empowering them to pursue self-sustaining businesses in agriculture, poultry farming, tailoring, and grocery retail. With 70% of the population in Polikandy relying on fishing and agriculture for income—and many still recovering from the long-term impacts of war and displacement—this initiative plays a critical role in:

• Reducing poverty and financial dependency
• Promoting women’s participation in local economies
• Cultivating a culture of saving, self-help, and entrepreneurship
• Creating access to emergency welfare through a 5% monthly contribution fund

The broader impact reaches across the entire GN Division of Polikandy West, demonstrating the power of locally driven development supported by strategic external aid.

Gratitude and Vision Forward

Our sincere appreciation goes to TARI by Gayatri, whose Navarasa Fashion Show fundraiser provided the funding for this initiative, as well as to all those who contributed their support. We also thank our partners, community stakeholders, and especially the dedicated women of the Maananganai Women Rural Development Society for their active participation and trust.

Vanni Hope remains committed to promoting dignity, opportunity, and sustainability in Sri Lanka’s most vulnerable communities. This project is a strong step toward our vision of building self-reliant and resilient rural economies, led by women, for the community.

Watch the full video coverage below