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Empowering Community: Walkers Tours commence construction of a Respite Facility in Waddagala Kalawana

In our continued commitment to sustainability and community empowerment, Walkers Tours is proud to announce the commencement of a meaningful initiative; the construction of a Respite Facility at Suduwalipota, Waddagala, Kalawana. This project is a powerful testament to responsible tourism, made possible through the generous funding from Sawadee Reizen, our valued tour agent partner based in the Netherlands.

The Respite Facility will serve as a multifunctional space designed to provide clean and decent sanitary amenities for volunteers visiting the nearby Cinnamon Rainforest Restoration Project. This facility is not just a much-needed convenience for visitors; it is a symbol of our commitment to inclusivity, environmental responsibility, and rural empowerment.

What makes this project especially meaningful is how deeply it is rooted in the local community. From start to finish, this initiative is driven by local involvement:

All labor for the project is being sourced locally from the Waddagala, Kalawana area, creating meaningful employment opportunities for both skilled and unskilled workers. This approach not only supports the local economy but also ensures that the project contributes towards improving livelihoods and building capacity within the surrounding community.

Building materials are being procured from nearby hardware stores within Weddagala, supporting micro-businesses and promoting local economic circulation.

Moreover, this Respite Facility will serve as a gateway for voluntourism experiences. With the Cinnamon Rainforest Project, the facility will be a vital touchpoint for travelers eager to engage in hands-on conservation work, tree planting, and learn more about the incredible biodiversity of Sinharaja. Local villagers will have the opportunity to engage with volunteers, share their culture, and even sell their handmade products and naturally grown fresh fruits and vegetables, creating sustainable income streams and strengthening cross-cultural understanding.

The construction of a respite facility directly advances the UN Sustainable Development Goals, with a strong focus on Clean Water and Sanitation (SDG 6)—ensuring every individual has access to safe, hygienic, and inclusive facilities. It also supports Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) by offering essential care and reducing caregiver burnout. By fostering Decent Work (SDG 8), promoting Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10), and building Inclusive Infrastructure (SDG 9), the project contributes to more resilient, Sustainable Communities (SDG 11). Donor support enables a lasting impact through responsible resource use (SDG 12) and meaningful partnerships (SDG 17) that put people and dignity at the heart of development.

We are incredibly proud to lead such an initiative that not only enhances the visitor experience but also ensures that tourism remains a force for the betterment of the industry. We extend our deepest gratitude to Sawadee Reizen for making this possible and for sharing our vision for a better, more sustainable future.

Stay tuned for more updates as the construction progresses and the facility comes to life: built by the community, for the community.