H.E. Akio ISOMATA, Ambassador of Japan to Sri Lanka met with women entrepreneurs in Mullaitivu district, Northern Province, supported by the project ‘Pathways to Peace’. The visit highlighted the impact of the business development and entrepreneurship training conducted by UN Women and Chrysalis with funding from the Government of Japan.
Implemented across four districts – Anuradhapura, Batticaloa, Mannar, and Mullaitivu – this initiative has empowered over 460 women entrepreneurs by enhancing their skills in business planning, financial literacy, and product development. These trainings have enabled participants to refine their business strategies, improve market access, and upscale their businesses.
At the event, Ambassador ISOMATA observed a variety of products manufactured by the women entrepreneurs and interacted with them, learning firsthand about their experiences and achievements. Ambassador ISOMATA stated: “Japan has been actively supporting women entrepreneurs and their families in vulnerable communities. This project goes beyond skill-building by sustaining women-led businesses, fostering peacebuilding, and strengthening social cohesion. By becoming economically active, women gain greater influence in decision-making and leadership roles within their communities, driving lasting and transformative change”.
As part of Japan’s longstanding partnership with UN Women, this initiative aligns with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, reinforcing commitments to gender equality and women’s economic empowerment.
