USAID helps Ampara manufacturer develop eco-friendly roofing products

The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in partnership with Building Solutions Ltd. opened today a state-of-the-art factory in Nawagampura, Ampara.

The opening was attended by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mangala Samaraweera and Allison Areias, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the US Embassy. 

“The opening of this factory is an example of the ongoing and deepening relationship between the US and Sri Lanka,” said Foreign Minister Samaraweera.  “We look forward to continued dialogue and partnership initiatives in the future.”

USAID and Building Solutions have together invested more than Rs. 80 million (approximately $ 800,000) to build the factory and equip it with specialised fabrication machinery to make corrugated steel roofing and silos. USAID also provided training and expertise in specialised areas such as energy efficiency. Overall the partnership has generated hundreds of jobs in Ampara.

“This factory is an excellent example of the US Government and the American people’s commitment to economic and social progress in Sri Lanka,” said Areias. “This is a great success story.” 

The new range of roofing products manufactured in the Ampara factory is adapted to meet specific needs of emerging industries in the Eastern Province.  The products are 100% recyclable.  In addition, the entire eco-friendly manufacturing process will reduce energy consumption and recycle waste. 

This project is supported under USAID’s VEGA/Biz+ program, which provides small enterprises in economically-lagging regions with financial, technical, and managerial assistance.