Australia, Canada give Tk 100m to BRAC for flood response

FE Team | Published: August 31, 2024 22:44:52

Australia and Canada, under the Strategic Partnership Arrangement (SPA) with BRAC, have contributed Tk 100 million (10 crore) towards flood response and rehabilitation efforts in Bangladesh, reports UNB.
Australia has contributed Tk 70 million, while Canada has contributed approximately Tk 31.0 million.
This funding will support 11,000 households across flood-affected regions, according to BRAC.
Chief Adviser of the Interim Government Prof Mohammad Yunus, recently emphasised the importance of coordinating with NGOs and leveraging their expertise in managing flood relief and rehabilitation efforts in Bangladesh.
During a meeting with representatives of various NGOs, he highlighted the need for international funding and coordination to effectively address the challenges posed by the floods.
BRAC's response strategy aligns with Prof Yunus's call for global cooperation, ensuring that support from international partners like Australia and Canada is effectively mobilised to build resilience and promote recovery in the most affected regions.
BRAC, in partnership with Australia and Canada, will utilise the funds to provide substantial support, including cash payments, repair and rehabilitation of water, sanitation, and hygiene facilities, emergency health and nutrition services, livelihood restoration, house repairs, agriculture inputs, and cattle feed.
BRAC has already allocated over BDT 50 million from its own resources to deliver immediate assistance, including medical support.
The additional SPA funding of BDT 100 million will ensure that comprehensive support continues through June 2025, addressing the long-term needs of those affected by the floods.
So far, BRAC has reached around 50,000 families with emergency relief, including food, drinking water, and essential medicines. In a coordinated response, 5,000 BRAC staff members have been deployed, working around the clock -- by boat, tractor, and even on foot -- to reach those most in need in hard-to-reach and underserved areas.
BRAC, with the support of the Government of Bangladesh and partners, has been on the ground since the start of the crisis and will continue to support families as they recover and rebuild.
This collaborative effort with Australia and Canada underscores the importance of international cooperation in disaster response and demonstrates the enduring commitment of BRAC and its partners to the well-being of flood-affected communities across Bangladesh.