Sri Lanka Mobilizes Urgent Medical Aid for Earthquake-Hit Myanmar

In the aftermath of the devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28, Sri Lanka has swiftly extended a hand of solidarity to its culturally and historically connected neighbor. According to Myanmar’s state media, the disaster has claimed 3,471 lives, injured 4,671 individuals, and left 214 people missing. This tragedy adds to an already dire humanitarian situation, with nearly 20 million people in need of assistance after four years of ongoing civil conflict.

In response to the crisis, the Government of Sri Lanka pledged both financial and operational support. The Ministry of Defence announced the deployment of three military teams—including rescue, relief, and medical personnel—and committed USD 1 million in aid.

To bolster the efforts of the medical teams being dispatched, the Disaster Management Centre (DMC) convened urgent meetings with humanitarian partners to mobilize immediate support. Among the key responders was the Asia Pacific Alliance for Disaster Management – Sri Lanka (A-PAD SL), who was tasked with the urgent procurement of essential medical supplies to accompany the mission.

Leveraging its wide network of private sector and civil society partners, A-PAD SL identified Hemas Pharmaceuticals as a potential donor. In an exemplary show of partnership, Hemas promptly contributed the required medicines. Simultaneously, A-PAD SL engaged trusted local vendors to fast-track the procurement process and ensure timely delivery.

Thanks to this coordinated dual-track effort, A-PAD SL not only fulfilled the request but exceeded it—doubling the quantity of items originally needed. The handover of the medical supplies took place at the Disaster Management Centre, with Major General Sampath Kotuwegoda ndc IG (Retd.), Director General of DMC, and Ms. Anoja Seneviratne, Director of Mitigation, Research & Development, in attendance.

This initiative underscores the effectiveness of Sri Lanka’s public-private partnerships in disaster response. A-PAD SL is honored to support the nation’s efforts and remains committed to regional solidarity in times of crisis.