Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Friendship have successfully concluded the second phase of their agricultural development initiative, aimed at empowering char-based communities with essential farm-to-market support. This collaboration has transformed the lives of around 10,000 climate-affected farmers across 36 chars, enabling them to increase agricultural output, rise above poverty, adopt sustainable practices, and build resilience in the face of climate challenges.
Through the initiative, farmers were equipped with sustainable agricultural technologies, training to enhance productivity, technical assistance, and market-linkage opportunities to foster financial inclusion. These comprehensive interventions have boosted agricultural activity in some of Bangladesh’s most vulnerable char-communities communities. By addressing food security and bolstering individual prosperity, the partnership has demonstrated the vital role agriculture plays in fostering sustainable development.
Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Chief Executive Officer, Standard Chartered Bangladesh, said, “Bangladesh’s char communities are among the most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. Through our partnership with Friendship, we are not only helping farmers secure their livelihoods but also contributing to food security and inclusive growth for the nation. By equipping farmers with the knowledge, tools, and connections they need, we are enabling them to overcome barriers and achieve sustainable progress. This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering a better, more resilient future for all.”
Runa Khan, Founder and Executive Director of Friendship, said, “This partnership exemplifies the power of collective action in addressing critical challenges faced by marginalized communities. By providing farmers with access to innovative technologies, training, and market opportunities, we are not only improving food production but also empowering communities to thrive amidst climate uncertainties. Together, we are saving lives, building resilience, and fostering a future where no one is left behind.”
Spanning multiple phases, the collaboration has supported the entire agricultural cycle. Farmers received critical inputs such as climate- and salt-tolerant seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, alongside training to maximize the use of available resources. Market connectivity efforts helped beneficiaries expand their operations, enabling them to sell produce on a larger scale. Technological innovations, including solar-powered pumps and crop dryers, facilitated a shift from subsistence farming to self-sufficiency. Additionally, infrastructure development, such as plinth construction, provided protection against extreme weather events, ensuring the continuity of agricultural efforts.
Livestock management was also prioritized, with initiatives offering vaccination, deworming, artificial insemination, and improved breeds of cattle and poultry. This holistic approach has supported farmers in diversifying their income streams and enhancing community resilience.
Standard Chartered has remained dedicated to driving commerce and development by investing in communities, expanding the reach and scale of services to promote greater inclusion, and creating new opportunities for stakeholders. Standard Chartered’s commitment to supporting Bangladesh’s continued journey of prosperity saw the Bank secure 29 major international awards in 2024.
Friendship, an international Social Purpose Organization, has been dedicated to serving marginalized communities for over 22 years. Guided by its four commitments – saving lives, alleviating poverty, climate adaptation, and empowerment – Friendship continues to transform lives and communities across Bangladesh.
– Press release
