SSEP–OHOB Environmental Tree-Planting Program Empowers 70 Farming Families in Hambantota

By Environment (SSEP)

On 19 June 2025, a large-scale environmental tree-planting and seedling distribution program was held in the Hambantota District under the Stepping-Stone Environmental Project (SSEP), implemented by Caritas SED Galle with the support of One Heart One Body (OHOB). The event took place at the Rana Mayurapura Vimukthi Multi-Purpose Community Centre and was coordinated by Rev. Fr. Asiri Fernando, Parish Priest of the Hambantota Catholic Church.

The program was conducted in collaboration with several key partners, including the Regional Coconut Cultivation Board, Mahaweli Authority (Mayurapura Unit), Hambantota Coconut Development Office, Hambantota Divisional Secretariat (Economic Development Branch), Agunukolapelessa Pradeshiya Sabha, and Grama Niladhari officers from Bellagassawa, Badda-Wewa, and Dabarella. Field staff from Caritas SED Galle and members of local community-based organizations also played active roles in the event.

🌱 Seedling Distribution Highlights:

  • Coconut seedlings distributed: 3,748, covering approximately 65 acres

  • Mango (TJC Special) seedlings distributed: 670, covering around 5 acres

  • Beneficiaries: 70 farming families from the GN divisions of Bellagassawa, Badda-Wewa, and Dabarella

🌾 Supportive Intercrops Provided:
Short- and medium-term income-generating crops such as lime, pomegranate, black pepper, soursop, bitter gourd, and sweet orange were also distributed. These intercrops aim to enhance income sustainability during the growth period of long-term crops.

The program further promoted climate-resilient agroforestry by integrating sustainable agricultural practices such as contour bunds, mulching, and drip irrigation—guided by the Mahaweli Authority. Environmental awareness was also raised through campaigns encouraging reduced plastic use and improved household-level solid waste management.

The initiative not only supports reforestation and biodiversity but also strengthens local livelihoods by linking beneficiary families with Caritas-supported micro-enterprise value chains for coconut and mango-based products.