FE Today Logo

StanChart, BRAC empower farmers, fishermen with climate-resilient initiatives

February 05, 2025 00:00:00


Standard Chartered Bangladesh, in partnership with BRAC, has successfully completed two agricultural initiatives aimed at supporting farmers in the haor areas of Sunamganj and Habiganj, and the Barind region.

These initiatives are designed to help farmers mitigate the adverse effects of climate change in flood- and drought-prone areas. Additionally, a second initiative has been completed to enhance the livelihoods of 560 fishermen in the Sundarbans, says a statement.

Supporting Farmers in Climate-Vulnerable Regions

Under the first initiative, Standard Chartered and BRAC provided farmers with resilient seed inputs, 353 types of essential agricultural technologies, post-harvest storage solutions, and training opportunities.

The project also advanced sustainable agricultural mechanisation by introducing modern equipment and techniques, improving efficiency and productivity.

To further protect lives and livelihoods in haor regions, 34,825 palm trees were planted to reduce lightning-related fatalities-an increasingly common threat due to erratic weather patterns.

In the Barind region, 28 solar-powered irrigation pumps were installed, lowering irrigation costs and creating additional income opportunities through water trading.

This comprehensive intervention addressed key phases of the agricultural cycle, equipping farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to enhance sustainability and food security.

Empowering Fishermen in the Sundarbans

The second initiative focused on strengthening the livelihoods of small-scale fishermen by providing essential equipment, including boats and nets.

With limited access to their own tools, many fishermen struggle to sustain their trade.

By equipping 560 fishermen with resources tailored to their needs, the initiative is enabling them to take control of their economic futures.

Two types of boats -- large engine-powered vessels and smaller boats -- were distributed to accommodate different fishing needs. A total of 10 large boats and nets were provided to support deep-sea fishing, particularly for Hilsa, while 56 small boats and nets were allocated for catching white fish within the mangrove forest area.

Bitopi Das Chowdhury, Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand & Marketing, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, "Farmers and fishermen are at the heart of Bangladesh's economy, yet their livelihoods are among the most vulnerable to climate change.

By equipping them with the right tools, knowledge, and sustainable solutions, we can help them not just survive, but thrive. Through our partnership with BRAC, we are championing resilience, modernisation, and financial inclusion, ensuring that those who feed the nation have the resources they need to build a stronger, more sustainable future."


Share if you like