Voice of the Plantation People Organization Conducts Photo voice Workshop on Malaiyaha Community Food Security in Deniyaya

The Voice of the Plantation People Organization (VOPP), in collaboration with the Colombo Urban Lab, successfully conducted a Photovoice workshop to address the food security situation of the Malaiyaha (plantation) community in Deniyaya, located in the Matara District. This initiative, held on June 23, 2024, was a key step in raising awareness of the challenges faced by the Malaiyaha community in terms of food security, nutrition, and economic stability.

Research Background: Insights into Food Security

Before the workshop, a comprehensive research study was conducted from March to May 2024 in Deniyaya to examine food security, dietary patterns, and nutrition within the Malaiyaha community. The research highlighted critical issues such as limited access to nutritious food, fluctuating food prices, and the overall economic vulnerability of the plantation workers and their families.

Photovoice Workshop: Empowering the Community

The Photovoice workshop utilized photography as a powerful tool to capture and communicate the lived experiences of the Malaiyaha community in relation to food security. Participants, many of whom are plantation workers, were encouraged to use photography to document their daily challenges in securing adequate and nutritious food. This participatory approach not only gave a voice to the community but also created a visual narrative that underscores the economic hardships and health risks they face. 

The photographs taken during the workshop offer a vivid portrayal of the realities on the ground. They reveal the struggle for access to healthy food, the impact of fluctuating incomes, and the coping mechanisms the community employs to meet their nutritional needs. These images serve as a lens through which external audiences can better understand the deep-rooted socio-economic issues within the Malaiyaha community.

Addressing Economic Vulnerabilities

The photos and stories generated through this initiative provide valuable insights into the economic situation of the Malaiyaha people. They expose how low wages, seasonal employment, and lack of financial security exacerbate food insecurity. By bringing these challenges to light, the VOPP and its partners aim to push for actionable solutions that address both short-term needs and long-term sustainable development for the community.

A Step Towards Change

The Photovoice workshop held in Deniyaya is an important part of a larger effort to bring attention to the plight of the Malaiyaha Tamil community in Sri Lanka. Through this initiative, the Voice of the Plantation People Organization continues its commitment to advocating for the rights and welfare of plantation workers, ensuring that their voices are heard in the national conversation on food security and socio-economic equity.

The findings and visuals from this project will be shared with policymakers, development agencies, and civil society organizations to drive collective action in support of the Malaiyaha community’s right to food security, economic stability, and improved living conditions.