Focused Group Discussions among Women Weavers in Ampara

The Gate Institute conducted a needs assessment in March 2024 to identify opportunities for developing the weaving industry among women-headed households in the Ampara district of Sri Lanka.

Several focused group discussions were conducted in Kalmunai, Veeramunai and Thirukkovil of Ampara district among women weaving workers and those interested in joining the weaving industry

These discussions identified various social, economic, and marketing problems and challenges women face in the weaving industry.

Although there is a great marketing opportunity for local textile products, the high cost of raw materials and lack of financial capacity to purchase the necessary equipment for weaving at home, abuse of women weavers has been identified as a widespread problem.

To address these issues, The Gate Institute is preparing a project to support the weaving industry among underserved communities with the support of the Diaspora, local authorities and civil society.