Sri Lanka Launches Alcohol Investment Case to Strengthen Public Health and Save Lives

Sri Lanka has taken another significant step towards reducing alcohol-related harm with the launch of the Sri Lanka Alcohol Investment Case and the WHO SAFER Initiative, highlighting the importance of evidence-based solutions and strategic investments in public health.

The initiative was launched with the support of World Health Organization Sri Lanka, alongside the Ministry of Health Sri Lanka, Movendi International, and other stakeholders committed to building a healthier and safer nation.

The event was attended by Health and Mass Media Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Director General of Health Services Dr. Asela Gunawardena, WHO Representative to Sri Lanka Dr. Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, and Dr. Andrea Bruni, Regional Advisor for Mental Health at the WHO South-East Asia Regional Office, reaffirming a collective commitment to addressing alcohol-related challenges through proven strategies.

According to the investment case, implementing five evidence-based alcohol control measures could help save more than 104,000 lives between 2024 and 2044, while preventing nearly LKR 643 billion in economic losses. The analysis further highlights that every rupee invested could generate LKR 12.2 in health, social, and economic benefits.

The WHO SAFER package provides a comprehensive roadmap for reducing alcohol-related harm through effective policies, prevention strategies, and stronger community action. The initiative focuses on preventing injuries, reducing premature deaths, and supporting sustainable development through improved public health measures.

With this new commitment, Sri Lanka aims to strengthen its approach to alcohol harm prevention and create lasting benefits for individuals, families, and communities across the country.