With the support of the Misereor project, the Lanka Organic Agriculture Movement (LOAM) conducted a training programme on the Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) on 4 September 2026 in Galle. The programme was conducted with the aim of strengthening consumer confidence in organic products and facilitating better market access for products produced by organic farmers.
The training was conducted with a focus on the Arunalu Organic and Organic Urban Home Gardening Project in Galle and brought together approximately 50 farmers from the surrounding areas.
The programme covered key aspects of PGS, including an introduction to the PGS approach, an overview of PGS standards, and practical field inspections. Participants also selected leaders to form the PGS Committee, laying the foundation for the establishment and implementation of the participatory certification process within the farming community.
The training was facilitated by Ajanta Palihawadana, Director of Special Projects at LOAM; Fasly Mohamed, Programme Manager; Danusha Jayathissa, Assitant Project Manager; and Indika Sampath, Training Consultant.
Approximately 50 participants took part in the programme, including farmers and government officials representing the Madapathala, Sangamiththapura, and Dangedara West Grama Niladhari Divisions. Among the government representatives were three Economic Development Officers and two Agricultural Officers from Sangamiththapura and Madapathala.
The programme was coordinated by Mr. Anuradha Gayan.
The training marked an important step towards strengthening participatory organic certification, building consumer trust in organic products, and creating improved market opportunities for organic farmers in the Galle area.
