AGP Executive Report

World Wildlife Day & Medicinal Plants: Sri Lanka is marking World Wildlife Day 2026 as concerns grow that medicinal and aromatic plants are being over-exploited, with questions over whether wildlife laws and enforcement are strong enough to stop commercial pressure and illegal trade. Climate & Health Readiness: Sri Lanka’s Health Ministry is bracing for El Niño-linked weather swings, including heavier rainfall and floods, with plans for public awareness on heat-related illness and capacity-building for health workers, plus discussions on a National Heat Health Action Plan. HIV Testing Made Easier: Health authorities are urging people to use KNOW4SURE.LK for confidential HIV self-testing, risk checks, clinic appointments, and discreet ordering of condoms, lubricants, and test kits. Dengue Prevention Focus: Dengue control efforts are under strain as public health inspectors have withdrawn from dengue duties island-wide, raising concerns for mosquito control continuity. Water Safety Alert: Colombo and suburbs saw a temporary water supply disruption after a suspected contamination incident near the Kelani River; officials say lab tests confirmed safety and normal distribution resumed. Snakebite Burden: A new global study reports snake envenoming and deaths are far higher than previously estimated, highlighting the need for better prevention and care, especially in rural, low-income communities. Prison Emergency Coordination: A coordinated emergency response mechanism has been launched at Jaffna Prison to improve incident handling and inmate welfare through closer inter-agency coordination.

HIV Access Boost: Sri Lanka’s NSACP is urging people to use KNOW4SURE.LK for confidential HIV self-testing, risk checks, and discreet ordering of condoms and lubricants, with free screening at government clinics. El Niño Health Watch: The Health Ministry is preparing for El Niño-linked swings—more rain then dry spells—by training clinicians on heat-related illness and planning for flood-related disease risks, including talks on a National Heat Health Action Plan. Dengue Control Concern: Reports say public health inspectors have withdrawn from island-wide dengue control duties over a transfer dispute, raising alarm as dengue cases keep climbing. Kidney Emergency Case: A published medical case links rapid kidney failure to homemade star fruit liquor, highlighting how “natural” home remedies can still be dangerous. Prison Emergency Coordination: A joint emergency response mechanism has been set up at Jaffna Prison to improve coordination and inmate welfare during incidents, with similar models planned nationwide. Water Safety Update: Colombo’s water scare has been cleared after lab testing, with distribution resumed following a suspected contamination incident. Sports & Health Angle: India’s follow-on pressure continues in the SL vs IND Test, while injury updates include a shoulder bruise for Rishabh Pant and a suspected rib-cage injury for Mohammed Siraj.

Cancer Care Access: Sri Lanka will expand free heart and thoracic surgery services at KDU Teaching Hospital under a new MoU to cut waiting times at NHSL, with NHSL specialists running operations and KDU providing facilities and equipment. Public Health Systems: The Cabinet has approved a new service category for specialist medical and specialist dental services, with committees now drafting the service constitution. Water Safety: Colombo’s water scare linked to suspected contamination near the Kelani River has ended after lab tests confirmed safety and normal distribution resumed. Heat & Child Health: Parents are urged to protect children from dehydration and heat-related illness during holidays, watching for warning signs like headaches, vomiting, unusual tiredness and dark urine. Disease Burden Research: A new global study in PLOS Medicine estimates snake envenoming affects 2.1–7 million people yearly, with deaths far higher than previously thought. Health Policy Risk: Sri Lanka’s cancer radiation machine procurement has been delayed for nearly five years, raising concerns about reliance on older cobalt-based treatment. Health Workforce/Access: A new “Homagama Journalists’ Housing Scheme” opens for eligible media professionals, including those with 10+ years’ service.

Cardiac Care Expansion: Sri Lanka will expand free heart and thoracic surgery services at KDU Teaching Hospital under a new MoU, aiming to cut long waits at NHSL by sending NHSL cardiothoracic specialists to operate at KDU. Cancer Treatment Delays: A tug-of-war has delayed procurement of advanced cancer radiation machines for nearly five years, with claims that Sri Lanka still relies heavily on older cobalt-based treatment. Health System Staffing: Cabinet has approved a new service category for “Specialist Medical and Specialist Dental Services,” setting up a structure and conditions for specialist roles. Dengue Warning: Dengue remains a major concern, with reports of cases nearing 100,000 and public health inspectors withdrawing from dengue control duties island-wide. Heat Safety for Kids: Parents are urged to protect children from dehydration and heat-related illness during holidays, watching for warning signs like headaches, vomiting, unusual tiredness and dark urine. Water Quality Update: Colombo and Gampaha water supply resumed after a Kelani River quality emergency was resolved and lab tests confirmed standards. Population Shift: Sri Lanka’s fertility rate has fallen to 1.3 children per woman, with the lowest rates in Colombo and higher rates in parts of the east and north. El Niño Health Risks: Global agencies warn Sri Lanka and others to prepare for extreme El Niño impacts on health, food and energy systems, including drought response for vulnerable districts.

School Nutrition Focus: PM Harini Amarasuriya says Sri Lanka’s school nutrition programme should go beyond free meals to build healthier eating habits and nutrition awareness across the whole school system, linking it to primary care and prevention. Dengue Alert: Sri Lanka’s dengue situation remains serious, with reports of cases nearing 100,000 and Western Province bearing the brunt. Cancer Care Upgrade: PMGH has received the country’s first cancer treatment machine, a major step for specialist oncology services. Maternal/Child Health & Vision: Qatar Charity’s ‘Challenge 27’ is restoring sight for hundreds in Sri Lanka, while HelpAge runs free cataract surgeries in Hambantota and Samanthurai. Public Health & Safety: A gas cylinder blast in Male’ left one burn victim on ventilator support and displaced dozens, with multiple patients taken for treatment. Clinical Care Spotlight: Sri Lankan doctors removed a rare, massive 3.1kg bladder stone, highlighting advanced surgical capability. Workplace Mental Health: A 13-day Sri Lanka cycling push for mental health and suicide prevention is set to run from Aug 29 to Sep 10. Justice & Health Systems: A missing Badulla Hospital specialist doctor was found dead in Mahiyanganaya, prompting further investigation.

Dengue Surge: Sri Lanka has logged 94,037 dengue cases this year, with the Western Province carrying the heaviest burden (52.93%). Authorities say Gampaha and Colombo districts are worst hit, and they’re urging continued vigilance as transmission remains active. Cancer Care Milestone: Papua New Guinea’s Port Moresby General Hospital received its first Halcyon Linear Accelerator, a major step toward nationwide advanced cancer radiation treatment. School Nutrition Focus: Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya says Sri Lanka’s school nutrition programme must go beyond free meals to build healthier eating habits and nutrition awareness across the school system. Drought and Health Risk: Prolonged dry weather is affecting 12 districts, with drinking water being distributed to tens of thousands already—raising concerns for public health and hydration. Local Hospital Tragedy: A missing anaesthesiology specialist from Badulla Teaching Hospital was found dead in Mahiyanganaya; police are investigating the circumstances. Eye Care Drive: Qatar Charity’s “Challenge 27” completed 300 cataract surgeries and provided spectacles to hundreds, including schoolchildren.

Drought Relief: Sri Lanka is bracing for worsening dry weather, with authorities warning 12 districts could be affected and reporting drinking-water distribution already reaching 72,153 people across multiple divisions. El Niño Preparedness: The government is pushing El Niño readiness, but health and water conservation are flagged as areas where public participation will be crucial. Eye Care Access: Qatar Charity’s “Challenge 27” drive completed 300 cataract surgeries and provided 555 prescription spectacles (including support for 150 school students), aiming to cut preventable blindness. Specialist Healthcare Push: Sri Lanka’s Health Minister says the country will strengthen specialist services, postgraduate training, hospital infrastructure and modern medical technology. Public Health Workforce Action: PHIs plan island-wide trade union action over transfer-related concerns, including a suspension of data/report submissions. Road Safety: Police report five deaths in road accidents within 24 hours, including an eight-year-old girl, underscoring ongoing injury risk. Robotic Surgery Milestone: Kings Hospital hosted Sri Lanka’s first live robotic surgery workshop, including robot-assisted gallbladder surgery. Pharma Exports: Gamma Interpharm began exporting Sri Lankan-made pharmaceuticals to Cambodia, expanding the country’s regional pharma footprint.

Public Health Labour Action: Sri Lanka Public Health Inspectors Association (PHIA) says it will start an island-wide trade union action from 24 Aug, after the transfer of Public Health Inspector B.H. Migasdeniya, alleging it was linked to opposition to illegal activities at the Bandaranaike International Airport health office in Katunayake; PHIA says inspectors will suspend submission of all data and reports and halt data-system restoration work during the action, while demanding the transfer be cancelled and a fair investigation held. Road Safety: Police report five deaths in multiple fatal crashes across Sri Lanka in a 24-hour period (22 Aug), including pedestrians, motorcyclists and an 8-year-old girl; arrests were made in at least some cases. Eye Care Access: Qatar Charity completed 300 cataract surgeries and distributed 555 prescription spectacles (including support for 150 school students) under its Challenge 27 Campaign, aiming to improve access for low-income families, elderly patients and children. Specialist Care Upgrade: Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says the government will strengthen specialist healthcare services, postgraduate training and hospital infrastructure, with modern technology, as part of priorities highlighted at NEUROSURG 2026. Robotic Surgery Milestone: Kings Hospital in Colombo hosted Sri Lanka’s first live robotic surgery workshop, with an international faculty surgeon performing robot-assisted procedures including a first robot-assisted gallbladder operation. Menstrual Health Support: Fems continues its partnership with the government’s Thilinapath programme, now reaching close to one million schoolgirls across 6,108 schools with free menstrual hygiene support.

Specialist care push: Sri Lanka’s Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says the government will strengthen specialist healthcare services, upgrade postgraduate medical education, expand hospital infrastructure and bring in modern medical technology, with a focus on building capacity for neurosurgery and other specialties. Menstrual health support: Fems continues backing the government’s Thilinapath programme, now reaching nearly 1 million schoolgirls across 6,108 schools with free menstrual hygiene products—aimed at reducing stigma, improving access and supporting safer school attendance. Access to eye care: HelpAge Sri Lanka, with the College of Ophthalmologists and the Ministry of Health, facilitated 1,000 free cataract surgeries in Hambantota and Samanthurai, funded by the Jaco Foundation, to cut waiting lists and restore sight for underprivileged older people. Medicines policy update: Cabinet has fast-tracked Sri Lanka’s National Medicinal Drug Policy 2026–2030 to improve access to affordable, quality medicines, strengthen supply chains and boost local pharmaceutical manufacturing. Workplace religious rights in healthcare: Justice For All condemned reports that Muslim female health assistants at Kalmunai North Base Hospital were ordered to remove hijabs, calling it systemic discrimination and urging a workable solution that protects both faith and patient care. Digital health foundations: Sri Lanka is moving toward national Digital ID rollout, with first issuance targeted this year and full implementation by August 2027, alongside a National Data Exchange to connect state systems.

Specialist care push: Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa says the government will strengthen specialist healthcare by boosting postgraduate training, hospital infrastructure and modern medical technology, speaking at NEUROSURG 2026 in Colombo. Menstrual health access: Fems continues supporting the Government’s Thilinapath initiative, now reaching close to 1 million schoolgirls across 6,108 schools with free menstrual hygiene products. Eye care for seniors: HelpAge Sri Lanka, with COSL and the Ministry of Health, facilitated 1,000 free cataract surgeries in Hambantota and Samanthurai, funded by Jaco Foundation. Drug policy update: Cabinet has approved the National Medicinal Drug Policy 2026–2030 to improve access to affordable, quality medicines and strengthen local pharmaceutical supply and production. Religious rights in healthcare: Justice For All condemns reports that Muslim female health assistants at Kalmunai North Base Hospital were ordered to remove hijabs, calling it systemic Islamophobia. Health system capacity & testing: A study highlights nasopharyngeal swab pooling as a way to expand SARS-CoV-2 testing capacity more efficiently. Digital health enabler: Sri Lanka targets first National Digital ID issuance this year, with full rollout by August 2027, alongside a National Data Exchange to connect state databases. Malaria progress message: APLMA CEO says malaria elimination remains achievable, citing Sri Lanka’s past success.

Hijab in hospitals: Muslim junior health workers at Kalmunai North Base Hospital seek modest dress changes within uniform rules; authorities reportedly transferred affected staff to Ashraff Memorial Hospital and may reconsider the uniform circular. Water security: A new warning flags groundwater as a finite, stressed resource for rural Sri Lanka, urging urgent sustainable management. Rural health access: A commentary argues rural empowerment plans like Praja Shakthi must directly lift services—especially health—rather than rely on trickle-down hopes. Disaster readiness: UNFPA and NYSC trained 100+ youth leaders in crisis response simulations covering floods, landslides and a dengue outbreak. Digital health-adjacent systems: Sri Lanka targets first National Digital ID issuance this year, with full rollout by Aug 2027, alongside a National Data Exchange to connect state databases. Cancer screening upgrade: A Rs. 153m mammography machine is being provided to Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital to speed breast cancer detection. Medicines policy: Cabinet fast-tracks the National Medicinal Drug Policy 2026–2030 to improve access to affordable, quality medicines and strengthen local supply. Public health & safety: Public Health Inspectors have withdrawn from dengue control duties island-wide amid a transfer dispute, while a separate report notes a travel-related dengue case. Health in detention: Suresh Sallay’s wife urges President not to extend his detention order, citing serious heart complications and need for specialised monitoring. Accident impact: A Monaragala tipper-trailer collision killed five and injured three others, underscoring ongoing road safety risks to patients and families.

Road Safety & Emergency Care: A tipper truck collided with a tractor and trailer in Monaragala (Kumbukkana Kalu Bridge) killing five and injuring eight; both drivers were arrested and investigations are ongoing. Digital Health & Access: Sri Lanka is moving ahead with its first National Digital ID, aiming to issue the first IDs this year and complete nationwide rollout by August 2027, alongside a National Data Exchange and a citizen “Supiri App” portal. Medicines & Public Health: Cabinet has fast-tracked the National Medicinal Drug Policy 2026–2030 to improve affordable, quality medicines, strengthen supply chains, and boost local pharmaceutical manufacturing. Cancer Screening Upgrade: A Rs. 153 million mammography machine has been provided to Anuradhapura Teaching Hospital to expand breast cancer early detection and reduce waiting times. Disease Control: Malaria elimination remains “within reach” in the region, with Sri Lanka cited as proof it can be achieved even during conflict, while Solomon Islands targets elimination by 2038. Community Wellness: A doctor-led 360 Skin Clinic opened in Negombo, bringing skincare, hair and body treatments closer to clients outside Colombo. Child & Mental Well-being: The Prime Minister urged parents and teachers to treat school holidays as essential rest time to protect children’s mental health.

Dengue Control Disrupted: Sri Lanka’s Public Health Inspectors’ Union has suspended dengue prevention and control duties nationwide from Aug 20, with a token strike planned for Aug 21, protesting an “arbitrary” transfer of the senior Medical Officer of Health at the Katunayake airport health office. Emergency Response in Prisons: A joint emergency response mechanism was set up at Matara Prison to coordinate state institutions during prison emergencies and improve inmate welfare, with multiple agencies including health officials and security forces involved. Child Mental Health Focus: Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya urged parents and teachers to treat school holidays as essential rest time, warning that excessive academic pressure can harm children’s mental well-being and highlighting risks for youth leaving formal education early. Nutrition & Metabolic Wellness: Frishantic launched a Berberine supplement paired with Ceylon cinnamon and other ingredients aimed at “daily metabolic wellness” routines. Eye Care Spotlight: Vasan Eye Care Hospital highlighted its specialist, super-specialty eye services and integrated surgical/non-surgical care model. Food Security Innovation: FAO and partners launched the World Food Day 2026 Youth Innovation Challenge, inviting university students to develop solutions for Sri Lanka’s agrifood systems and nutrition needs. Digital Payments for Care: Dialog Pay enabled LankaQR payments at Asiri Health facilities for consultations, labs, diagnostics and pharmacy purchases.

Dengue Response Disrupted: Sri Lanka’s Public Health Inspectors’ Union has suspended all dengue prevention and control activities nationwide from today (20), citing a disputed transfer of the senior Medical Officer of Health at the Katunayake airport health office, with an island-wide token strike planned for tomorrow (21). Emergency Care Coordination: A new joint mechanism to strengthen emergency response and improve prisoner welfare has been set up at Matara Prison as a pilot, bringing together prison authorities, military units, police, and the Office of the Medical Officer of Health. Water Security Under El Niño: Sri Lanka has allocated 4.8 billion rupees (about $14m) to deliver drinking and sanitation water—around 75 litres per family every two to three days—to nearly 72,000 people across seven drought-affected districts. Health Sector Business Moves: Dialog Pay now enables LankaQR payments at Asiri Health facilities, covering consultations, lab services, diagnostics, and pharmacy purchases. Eye Care Spotlight: Vasan Eye Care Hospital continues to expand its specialist ophthalmic services, positioning itself as a leading super-specialty eye care centre in Sri Lanka. Training & Skills: JAT Pintharu Abhiman marked an NVQ milestone for 120 painters, including 14 receiving NVQ Level 4.

Medical breakthrough: Surgeons at Trincomalee District General Hospital removed a “baby-sized” 3.1kg bladder stone from a 55-year-old stroke patient, reported as possibly the largest surgically removed on record. Public health & prevention: Sri Lanka’s disaster-preparedness push continues as UNFPA and NYSC trained 100 youth leaders in crisis response, using simulations covering floods, landslides and dengue outbreaks. Health system pressure: India’s obesity trend is rising fast, with NFHS-6 showing overweight/obesity increasing among both men and women, especially in rural areas—an urgent reminder for Sri Lanka’s own prevention planning. Tourism & wellness: Sri Lanka Tourism launched an interim digital, media and marketing campaign aimed at boosting visitor numbers, with early focus on Australia before expanding to markets including India and China. Local healthcare governance: Shoora Council urged the PM to investigate alleged obstruction of newly appointed public officers at Kalmunai Hospital. Health & culture: A report highlights Muslim health workers challenging a Sri Lankan hospital over a hijab ban.

GMOA Workforce Crunch: The Government Medical Officers’ Association (GMOA) is calling for an immediate revision of Sri Lanka’s approved doctor and health worker cadre, warning that outdated staffing levels since 2015 are making workloads unsustainable and threatening the stability of the free health service. Giant Bladder Stone Surgery: Surgeons at Trincomalee District General Hospital removed a “baby-sized” 3.1kg bladder stone from a 55-year-old stroke patient, with doctors saying it may be the largest surgically removed on record; the patient is reported in very good condition. Disaster Preparedness for Youth: UNFPA and NYSC trained 100 young leaders through simulation-based disaster preparedness, focusing on early warning and community resilience for risks including floods, landslides and dengue outbreaks. Street Animal Welfare: A community “Guardians” programme encourages people who feed stray animals to also ensure sterilization, rabies vaccination and treatment for sick or injured animals. Health & Safety in Focus: Sri Lanka’s Kalmunai North Base Hospital is under scrutiny after a complaint that newly appointed public officers were obstructed from assuming duties, raising concerns about rights and lawful work arrangements.