Through its Women Dairy Farmer Empowerment Program, Fonterra is fostering industry-wide collaboration to equip women with the skills, resources, and networks needed to excel in a traditionally male dominated sector.
Launched last year, the program was established to remove barriers and create opportunities for female dairy farmers.
Fonterra has identified key challenges faced by Sri Lankan women farmers, including deep-rooted social stereotypes, the struggle to balance family and farming responsibilities, and limited access to resources and knowledge.
These factors have restricted their productivity and participation in the industry.
To address these challenges, the program has evolved into a transformative initiative, providing smallholder women farmers with specialized training and expertise in technical aspects, financial literacy and business acumen.
Over the past year, it has supported 30 women farmers, helping them enhance productivity, improve livestock management, and adopt modern farming techniques for greater efficiency and yield.
Building on its success, the program now enters into its second phase, expanding its reach and strengthening industry partnerships.
This phase introduces advanced training, stronger market connections, and mentorship opportunities.
Among the 30 women farmers, Vinitha, Sanjeewani, Kalista, and Nirmala, have excelled by adopting improved practices such as silage production, advanced nutrition, and better farm sanitation.
Their progress has resulted upliftment in productivity and financial independence - demonstrating the power of knowledge and support in driving sector growth.
Beyond supporting women farmers, Fonterra also recognizes the contributions of its female employees who play a vital role in nourishing the nation.
To appreciate their dedication, Fonterra marked International Women’s Day 2025 by offering complimentary wellness checkups for all female employees, reaffirming its commitment to their well-being.
Beyond training, development, and recognition, Fonterra is committed to fostering an inclusive ecosystem where women in both dairy farming and the workplace not only participate but lead.
By championing female entrepreneurship, skills development and workplace empowerment, the company is driving industry-wide progress.
As it continues to support and uplift women across the dairy sector, Fonterra remains focused on creating a future where success is determined by ability and opportunity rather than gender, ensuring women play a key role in shaping Sri Lanka’s dairy industry.