Empowering Coastal Communities Through Resilient Homestead And Livelihood Support To The Vulnerable Coastal People Of Bangladesh (RHL) Initiative Kicks Off In Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar
A significant step towards empowering vulnerable coastal communities was taken on May 29, 2024 with the Resilient Homestead and Livelihood Support to the Vulnerable Coastal People of Bangladesh (RHL) Inception Workshop held at the Upazila Parishad Auditorium in Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. This pioneering initiative, funded by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and implemented by BASTOB-Initiative for People’s Self-Development, aims to improve the lives and resilience of coastal communities in southwestern Bangladesh. The workshop was graced by the presence of esteemed guests, including the Chief Guest, Ms. Meekey Marma, Upazila Nirbahi Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar. Special guests included Mr. Abu Hayder, Chairman, Matarbari, Md Jashim Uddin, Principal, Moheshkhalli College, Atahar Iqbal, Dholghata Panel Chairman, and MD Alauddin, Marine Fisheries Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar.
Addressing the gathering, Ms. Meekey Marma lauded the RHL project initiative, stating, “The RHL project funded by Palli Karma Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and implemented by BASTOB is clearly a good initiative. The integrated approach might help the Cyclone Remal-affected coastal people of Maheshkhali overcome hurdles.”MD Nasirul Alom, Upazila Agriculture Officer, Moheshkhali, Cox’s Bazar, emphasized the importance of collective action, remarking, “As Moheshkhali is a cyclone-affected area, the agricultural sector faces many difficulties. People should work together to overcome their challenges.”
The workshop focused on the key objectives of the project, including the construction of climate-change resilient houses in coastal areas, the establishment of crab hatcheries/nurseries and the cultivation of climate-change resilient crabs, goat rearing in the Mancha system, and the cultivation of salt-tolerant vegetables in homestead courtyards. The event facilitated discussions and collaboration among stakeholders, including government officials, development agencies, and representatives from the targeted communities. Participants shared valuable insights and explored strategies for successful project implementation.
Mr. Ruhi Das, Executive Director of BASTOB, chaired the program, while Mr. Ranjit Chandra Das, Assistant Executive Director of BASTOB, facilitated the proceedings. Notably, Chairmans from eight Union Parishads of Moheshkhali, Cox’ bazar also graced the event and committed to extending their support for the successful implementation of the project.
