I’ve just returned from a fantasic holiday to Sri Lanka. We’d heard about the the incredible beauty of the island and were attracted by this and the charm of Sri Lankan culture. We had a great trip and were looked after by most most courteous fun loving people. As soon as our South African nationality was known smiles appeared and cricket conversations blossomed.
We passed through many military checkpoints and it’s clear that the country is just beginning to emerge from 30 years of civil war. As Naomi Klein explained so well in her book ‘ The Shock Doctrine’ the island is experiencing radical socio-economic change in the aftermath of war and the 2004 Indian Ocean Tsunami
In addition to the charm of Sri Lankan people the environment and sport are two major drawcards for this country. I hope they are able to develop these resources wisely.
Sri Lanka has a strong tea growing tradition and the deforestation affects of this are well known.
My hope is that the leaders of Sri Lanka are able to move out of the mentality war and the colonial tea growing mentality. Focus now needs to be placed on the countries emerging economic strengths. These include environmental tourism and sporting events like one day cricket internationals.
