Viluthu Foundation Supports Women’s Livelihoods and Entrepreneurship in Northern Province

The Viluthu Foundation for Women has launched its “Her Rise: When She Rises Communities Rise” initiative to strengthen women’s livelihoods and promote entrepreneurship, particularly among women-led households in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province. The programme focuses on reducing poverty, improving household incomes and creating sustainable economic opportunities. It is supported by donors Shivanthan and his family and S. Raman of Singapore.

As part of the initiative, the foundation recently provided livelihood assistance to more than 130 women in Mullaitivu District, following support extended to 182 women in Kilinochchi. The assistance included sewing machines, ovens, refrigerators and other livelihood equipment, selected according to the beneficiaries’ existing skills and income-generating needs. The programme was implemented in coordination with the Mullaitivu District Secretariat and the six Divisional Secretariats in the district.

Speaking at the event, Mullaitivu District Secretary A. Umamaheswaran highlighted the significant number of women-led households in the region. He noted that records presented by Viluthu indicate around 47,000 families in Mullaitivu are entirely dependent on women, including more than 6,000 widows. Viluthu’s research has identified 11 main categories and more than 58 subcategories of women-headed households, while estimates for the Northern Province range from 67,000 to as many as 150,000, depending on the definitions used.

Umamaheswaran also recognised the contribution of women to the local economy, particularly through micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The initiative brought together Tamil, Muslim and Sinhalese women, with the foundation seeking to increase women’s economic participation and strengthen household livelihoods through targeted support.

The Viluthu Foundation for Women was founded by social activist and philanthropist Shanthi Sachithanandam. Following her passing, her daughters Maithreyi and Aaranya Rajasingam have continued their mother’s legacy and work with communities affected by poverty, conflict and economic hardship. With more than two decades of experience, the foundation says it aims to support 100,000 women across Sri Lanka, while encouraging individual and corporate donors to invest in sustainable livelihood opportunities for women.