ESTATE AREAS

Sri Lanka’s Tea Estate Communities: A Legacy of Hardship and a Hopeful Future

A History of Marginalization
The tea estate communities in Sri Lanka, often referred to as the Malayagam people, trace their roots back to the mid-19th century when their ancestors were brought from South India as laborers by British colonialists. For generations, these communities have lived and worked on the tea plantations, playing a pivotal role in making Sri Lanka one of the world’s largest tea exporters. Yet, despite their contributions, they have long endured systemic marginalization, poverty, and limited access to basic rights and services.

Living on the Edge
Tea estate workers are among the most vulnerable populations in Sri Lanka. Living in isolated plantations, they often lack access to quality education, healthcare, and housing. Many families reside in line rooms—cramped and dilapidated housing originally built during colonial times. According to UNICEF, these communities face significant challenges in water sanitation and hygiene (WASH), education, child protection, and social protection.

A Cycle of Poverty and Limited Opportunity
Education outcomes in tea estate areas are among the lowest in the country. Schools often lack adequate facilities and qualified teachers, limiting opportunities for children to break free from the cycle of poverty. Women, who constitute a significant portion of the workforce in tea estates, are paid low wages and often face exploitative working conditions. Additionally, malnutrition and food insecurity are widespread, with estate children experiencing some of the highest rates of stunting and undernutrition in Sri Lanka. A study by the Centre for Poverty Analysis (CEPA) highlights that, despite reductions in poverty headcount ratios, the estate community continues to experience poverty in various forms, including low educational attainment and inadequate housing.

Empowering Communities for a Brighter Future
Despite these challenges, the resilience of the tea estate communities is inspiring. Investing in sustainable housing, access to education, and skills development can help these families build a better future. Programs that support women’s empowerment, improve wages, and provide opportunities for alternative livelihoods are critical to breaking the cycle of poverty. Addressing malnutrition and improving healthcare access are also essential steps toward creating a healthier, more equitable future for the Malayagam people.

Your Support Can Change Lives
The Malayagam people have contributed immensely to Sri Lanka’s economy and culture, yet their needs remain unmet. Your support can help provide access to education, healthcare, and dignified living conditions, offering these communities a chance to thrive. Together, we can honor their legacy and help build a brighter future for generations to come. Join us in creating meaningful change for Sri Lanka’s tea estate communities.