ANNUAL REPORT 2022-23
RDRS Annual Report 2021-2022
© RDRS annual report 2022-23 Dhaka, December 2023 Advisor Tapan Kumar Karmaker Editors Md Fayzer Rahman Md Abdus Samad Sabrina Sharmin Text & Photo RDRS Staff Cover Photo Sabrina Sharmin Production Supervision Sabrina Sharmin Editing, Design & Printing Omnispace RDRS Bangladesh House 43, Road 10, Sector 6, Uttara Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh Tel: + 88 02 58957071, 58954673, 58951802 Email: [email protected] Web: www.rdrsbangladesh.org
CONTENTS Chairperson’s Statement 4 Executive Director’s Message 6 RDRS working area 8 Vision, Mission, Core Values & Programme Coverage 10 Board of Trustees 11 General body 12 Skills, Employment and Entrepreneurship 14 – Social Organisation 16 – Women’s Rights 19 – Health 27 – Education 35 Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change 40 Microfinance 47 Emergency and Humanitarian Response 54 – Flood Emergency Response 54 – Humanitarian Response to Rohingya (FDMNs) 56 Events & Visitors 58 Learning and Development 60 Communications 62 Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning 64 Auditor’s Report and Financial Statements 67 Partners and Projects 114 Senior Staff 17 Abbreviations 118
RDRS Bangladesh has its origins deeply rooted in the 1971 liberation war. Established barely two months after Bangladesh became an independent country, it was initially an initiative of the Lutheran World Federation. The Geneva-based international organisation founded RDRS in February 1972 to provide much needed assistance to a war ravaged country that was still reeling from the effects of a bloody ninemonth war. The Rangpur-Dinajpur Rehabilitation Service, as RDRS was called and very much as the name suggests, was set up to primarily provide assistance to the northern region of Bangladesh and help with the rehabilitation of millions of people returning to their homes. Quite naturally then, RDRS projects and initiatives, at the outset, revolved around food assistance, healthcare, relief and rehabilitation, besides construction and repair of infrastructure (roads, bridges, culverts, schools) in the greater RangpurDinajpur region, that have typically been economically backward compared to the rest Bangladesh, and was even more so 50 years ago. RDRS gradually expanded the scope of its work to improve the socio-economic condition of the poor and disadvantaged of the region and implemented health, agriculture, education and women’s empowerment activities. Since its inception, RDRS has been working to improve the quality of life of underprivileged communities of the country’s north-western region. Since localisation in 1997, the organisation has gradually expanded its services beyond the Rangpur-Dinajpur axis to include rest of the country. But the major focus still remains Bangladesh’s north-western districts that traditionally fell under Rangpur and Dinajpur. RDRS provides support to the grassroots under an inclusive sustainable development approach. The major activities include social empowerment, women’s rights, education, health, improving livelihoods of char dwellers and ethnic minorities, food security and nutrition, climate change adaptation, emergency and humanitarian response, and creating income opportunities through microfinance. RDRS has a long history of success in delivering development services. Alongside many other impactful contributions, RDRS has become a noteworthy name for its pioneering work in greening northern Bangladesh. The organisation prioritises climate change and undertakes comprehensive and sustainable initiatives to enhance the capacity of vulnerable communities in northwest Bangladesh so that they may become more resilient to the fallouts of global warming. Major activities include community coping mechanisms, innovation and extension of climateresilient cropping patterns, homestead raising in flood-prone areas, and tree plantation. RDRS has received the ACT Climate Award, and Prime Minister’s Gold Medal for climate change adaptation and tree plantation activities respectively. Chairperson’s statement Parveen Mahmud, FCA Chairperson Board of Trustees Dhaka, November 2023 4 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
5 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 RDRS has worked for half a century with a commitment to empower the rural poor, particularly those of Rangpur and Dinajpur. In this long journey, RDRS has been successful in its many initiatives while some unsuccessful stories are also there. However, RDRS has never allowed its mistakes to weigh it down but learned from them to move forward, all the while adapting to changing circumstances. I would like to extend my thanks and gratitude to all our partners and government authorities for their generosity and benevolence. I would also like to convey my sincere greetings and best wishes to RDRS staff members and stakeholders for their wholehearted support and cooperation in building RDRS into the strong, effective and enlightened organisation that it is today.
I am pleased to present the Annual Report of RDRS Bangladesh that reflects its annual progress and accomplishments throughout the year July 2022-June 2023. Through extensive consultation with the different stakeholders, programme participants, staff, and board, we have drafted RDRS’s sixth 5-year Strategic Plan from 2023 to 2027. We have also developed the five-year annual operation plan which was jointly reviewed and finalized by the board and senior management team. By emphasizing the change in demography and economic context of the country - we have redefined our priorities in this Strategic Plan. We identified 5 thematic program priorities that include Skills, Employment, and Entrepreneurship; Social Empowerment (Health, Education, and Social Organization); Agriculture, Food Security, and Climate Change; Microfinance; and Emergency and Humanitarian Response. Priorities have necessarily been aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and broader national plans and strategies. During the year the Board Audit and Finance Sub-Committee reviewed the annual budget, Accounting and Finance Manual, HR Manual, and Annual Audit report. Two additional board sub-committees constituted 1) the Program Sub-committee and 2) the HR and Administration Sub-committee during the year. Considering the price inflation and suffering, staff salary has been adjusted. An incentive system was introduced for the microfinance staff. Several policies have been updated and newly introduced including the Safeguarding Policy. In 2022-2023, we continued the development efforts for the underprivileged and marginalized communities across our working area. During the reporting period, some projects were phased out, some were renewed and some new projects were initiated. To reduce maternal mortality and child mortality a long-term project called “Janani” was launched and this project will be implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Save the Children. Rohingya response in Coxbazar intensified through resource mobilization from different donors. Human capacity development is further strengthened through the training and recruitment of senior staff. Mobile money and Artificial Intelligence (AI) based client assessment software launched during the year. We have continued our support to the poor people, especially women members through the microfinance program. They were provided training and financial support to start small enterprises to become self-reliant. To ensure better services, we also have digitalized our loan at the operational level as well as in-office facilities. Our other development programs such as ensuring women’s and children’s rights, prevention of child marriage, protection of maternal and child health, eye care service, quality education, agricultural innovation, emergency and humanitarian response, climate change adaptation, etc. are also successfully carried out with importance. Tapan Kumar Karmaker Executive Director Dhaka, November 2023 Executive Director’s Foreword 6 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
To establish RDRS as free from any kind of exploitation and harassment, we have emphasized safeguarding issues and established a safeguarding unit for this purpose. We developed a safeguarding policy including appointing a Safeguarding Focal Person at HO and Regional office level. Compliance with this policy is mandatory for all who are involved with RDRS. Despite various challenges, Bangladesh is continuing its journey of economic upliftment towards becoming a developed country by 2041. Infrastructural development through accomplishing some mega projects including Padma Bridge, Dhaka Metro Rail, underwater tunnel, and Rooppur Nuclear Power Plant are signs of a growing economy and development progress of the country. Bangladesh stands adorned with numerous significant achievements. Presently, the nation is positioned favorably to endeavor towards the ambitious goal of attaining a povertyfree and advanced economy by the year 2041 alongside achieving the SDGs. But still, many people are living below the poverty line and indeed need support for their livelihoods. The government has been addressing their needs through the National Safety Net Programme, where NGOs are playing a remarkable complementary role in supporting the initiative. Since our operational strategy is developed in line with the development plans of the government of Bangladesh, we are committed to doing our best and working closely with the government to expedite the development mission of the country. RDRS has marked its 51st anniversary in 2023, a period of emergence and establishment. I take the opportunity to extend our heartfelt thanks and sincere gratitude to all our partners, donors, and government agencies for their continuous support of RDRS’ development endeavors. 7 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
8 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
9 Working area As of June 2022 Panchagarh, Thakurgaon, Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat, Kurigram, Rangpur, Dinajpur, Gaibandha, Joypurhat, Naogaon, Bogura, Jamalpur, Sherpur, Sirajganj, Natore, Kushtia, Chuadanga, Jhenaidah, Jashore, Khulna, Sylhet, Maulvibazar, Habiganj, Kishoreganj, Brahmanbaria, Narsingdi, Gazipur, Dhaka, Narayanganj, Cox’s Bazar TOTAL 30 DISTRICTS RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Head office Central coordination office, Rangpur
A just and peaceful society where citizens live in dignity, free from poverty, distress, and ignorance in a sustainable environment. VISION MISSION CORE VALUES RDRS works with disadvantaged and marginalized communities and their organizations to empower them, make them resilient, and ensure sustainable improvements in their lives with dignity. RDRS PROGRAMME COVERAGE Divisions 07 Districts 30 Upazilas 165 Unions 1230 Municipalities 85 City Corporations 05 Programme Participants 1,488,071 Total Federations 406 Registered Federations 247 Female-led Federations 136 Federation Members 389,092 (Female 72%) Branches 278 Areas 59 Regions 17 Microfinance Clients 426,395 (Female 92.30%) 10 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Compassion: We essentially feel and are motivated to relieve the suffering of our program participants, and thus design and implement actions accordingly, in all our actions to our disadvantaged and marginalized program participants, particularly the women, children, youth, and minorities. Commitment: We promise to design and implement our program actions equitably, professionally, and efficiently. Innovation: We develop and implement innovative approaches and technology, relevant to local context and culture, to apply in boosting the people’s livelihoods and coping methods. Adaptability: We continuously learn and adapt our approaches and intervention as relevant to the emerging trends and needs to ensure our program objectives and the organization’s mission is effectively achieved. Accountability: Core to our integrity, we ensure transparent operations and feedback mechanisms, and are answerable for all our actions to the people we seek to serve, our donors and society.
Board of Trustees Parveen Mahmud FCA Chairperson Dr. S. M. Akbar Treasurer Philip Biswas Member Hasin Jahan Member Shabbir Ahmed Chowdhury Member Zahida Ispahani Member Prof. Dr. M. Moynul Haque Member Faruque Ahmed Member 11 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
General Body Parveen Mahmud FCA Chairperson Dr. S. M. Akbar Treasurer Hasin Jahan Member Zahida Ispahani Member Prof. Dr. M. Moynul Haque Member Shabbir Ahmed Chowdhury Member Faruque Ahmed Member Philip Biswas Member 12 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
Syeda Rizwana Hasan Member Sumaiya Khair Member Prof. Dr. Mojib Uddin Ahmed Member Shib Narayan Kairy Member Abdus Satter Sarkar FCA Member Ahmed Ataul Hakeem, FCMA Member Rasheda K. Choudhury Member Prof. Dr. Nazmul Islam Member Anna Minj Member 13 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23
RDRS implements this project in Rangpur promoting empowerment of indigenous youth to become active citizens and positive change agents of an inclusive society and Community Based Organizations support indigenous youth to achieve their Rights and entitlements. The EYRB project, supported by the US Embassy, aims to increase livelihood and employment opportunities of indigenous youth in northern Bangladesh. Major activities and achievements under the project are listed in the table below. Skills, Employment and Entrepreneurship Empower Youth for Resilience Building (EYRB) RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 14 54 Youth group formation at wards Youth group planning MAJOR ACTIVITIES Girls receiving IT training under skills development programme
15 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 04 02 06 150 586 268 Formation and training of people’s theatre group at CBOs Meeting with LGI for access to their rights and entitlement Issue-based campaigns Training on leadership development for youth Orientation of youth on rights and entitlement Life skills training for youth Participants of the skill development training in using technology
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 16 RDRS supports members of 406 union federations, youth forums, women’s forums, ethnic minorities, person with disabilities and other marginalised groups for their social empowerment through the Core Comprehensive Programme, which is being implemented in Rangpur Division and Jamalpur district with the support of Bread for the World (BftW). The main objective of the programme is to improve resilience and enhance the economic, social, and environmental sustainability of disadvantaged and excluded communities. It is expected that successful implementation of the project will strengthen the voice of marginalised people in the decisionmaking process and ensure equitable access to resources. The major activities being implemented under the project include capacity development of federation (CBO) leaders, enhancement of federations’ advocacy and networking skills, leadership and skill development of youth and women, and capacity building of community leaders and victims of genderbased violence. The capacity building support to federations leaders envisaged to increasing their representation in local government and other government departments to negotiate and influence more effectively. Besides, vulnerable youth and women who received support with skills and job placement are actively taking part in decision-making in their families and community. The awareness of the wider community on gender and genderbased violence has contributed to reducing violence against women and girls including trafficking. These are the few key achievements during the reporting period. Key highlights l All federation have analysed and identified their local problems and developed a plan to address those which is facilitated by the project. l They are critically engaging local government at different meetings for proper implementation of social safety net programmes and increasing their representation in different committees. l 17,224 Federation members received cash and food support during the Covid-19 pandemic. l Federation facilitated to list 19,856 members in safety net programmes. l 67 Federation mobilised cash grant for new projects from government agencies and NGOs. l 3 Federation received cash support from Sara Bangla Krishok Society - a platform for marginal farmers. l 1 Federation leader elected as the chairperson of the Sara Bangla Krishok Society Social organisation Core Comprehensive Programme SOCIAL EMPOWERMENT
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Abdul Haque was in his mid-20’s when he first started working for the Shilkuri Union Federation in 2000. Soon enough, his natural potential for leading federation shone through. He was elected chair within seven years of his joining it in 2007. During his long tenure at the head of the federation and with RDRS assistance there were several initiatives to develop its capacity. These included training and orientation in leadership, organisational management, financial management and record keeping, communication and rights-based approach. A more enabled leadership was able to steer the federation successfully. The Shilkuri Union Federation then started to make a difference in people’s lives. Established in 1993, the Shilkuri Union Federation is a development-oriented non-political local organisation led by marginalised people like landless and small farmers, poor, disadvantaged, and indigenous people of the union. It aims to improve the social, economic, political, moral, and cultural living standards of marginalised and disadvantaged people. It also aims to contribute towards a progressive and dignified social infrastructure based on justice and ethics through constructive programmes and activities. Today, the Shilkuri Union Federation is well on its way to achieving its goals not only in Shilkuri union but in adjacent areas as well. Still by Abdul Haque and his eight-member executive committee, the federation provides means of livelihood to the poor and downtrodden. But it was not easy in the beginning. The federation was looking for funds soon after Abdul Haque took over its helm. They had also submitted a project proposal to Bangladesh NGO Foundation (BNF) in 2008 and BNF provided financial support for implementation of a livelihood project. With that, the Shilkuri Federation distributed goats to 165 femaleheaded poor families and trained them. That was how it started. Since then, Shilkuri federation has been implementing different projects in different phases for improving the livelihoods of poor people. The federation has thus far provided sanitation support to the 32 poor families who were living in two enclaves. The federation also distributed rickshaw vans to 26 poor families and distributed heifers to 22 poor families for rearing as income generation. Besides, the federation has been implementing education projects since 2015 through 17 learning centres in remote wetland and char areas of Shilkuri, Telai, Pathordobi and Pikerchara unions under Bhurungamari upazila which have 600 young pupils. What was once a small initiative scraping for funds has become a beacon of hope for the marginalised residents as it continues to contribute to social empowerment and economic empowerment, thereby raising the standard of life of the impoverished and downtrodden. CASE STUDY I A BEACON OF HOPE 17
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 18 Socio-Economic Empowerment with Dignity and Sustainability (SEEDS) This project is being implemented in Rangpur district with the support of Stromme Foundation. RDRS provides support to 3,000 families from indigenous and marginalised communities, women, youth, adolescents, and children to empower them so that they can become citizens with dignity. The main goal of the project is to improve socio-economic conditions of the target stakeholders. The project has several activities. These include skill development of programme participants to make their Family Development Plan (FDP), facilitation to set up self-reliant groups (SRG) among programme participants, facilitation to form people’s organisations, IGA training for women, preprimary education for children aged 5-6, Child Club for weak learners from grade III and IV, capacity building training for primary school management committee (SMC) members and teachers, socio-economic empowerment of adolescent girls through life skills education, and TVET for youth to create self-employment opportunities through decent job creation, value chain and market development. Some major activities that were accomplished under the project are listed in the following graphics. 1781 38 1489 984 86% 72% 984 69 3000 1,386 Children completed pre-primary education Government primary schools supported to ensure quality education Learners developed skills in reading, writing, English and math Shonglap forums (adolescent forums) established Women participants in IGAs Youth completed vocational training Adolescent girls apply life skills in their daily life Adolescent girls involved in family decision-making process TVET graduates involved in employment Social and economic empowerment of adolescents enhanced After being engaged with the SEEDS project, target families are now capable of mitigating challenges in their lives. They are aware of their rights and know how their rights are protected and promoted. The transformation that happened in the community is expected to help them to become resilient and sustain their development activities to cope with the changing world.
19 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 RDRS implements the CEMB project partnering with Plan International Bangladesh to increase knowledge and capacities of district CMPC (Child Marriage Prevention Committee) members, adolescents, and CSOs. The project is also working to increase the capacities of government actors to hold them accountable for preventing child marriage by implementing the Child Marriage Restraint Act (CMRA) 2017 and Rules 2018. The goal of the project is to combat child marriage and reduce the vulnerability of adolescents, particularly girls in Rangpur division. Activities Achievement Orientation provided to CMPC members 10 batches Workshops with district civil society groups/networks 05 CMPC monthly meetings 60 Annual progress review meetings of CMPC 05 School campaigns on gender, child rights and child marriage prevention 10 Orientation for media personnel 05 The major activities accomplished under the project are listed in the following table. Women’s rights Combating Early Marriage in Bangladesh (CEMB) RDRS staff and the girls from RDRS Shelter Home at 16 days activism event Women’s Rights
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 20 l MoU with 45 union councils for establishing safe space for adolescents l Provided training on quick income earning activities and business improvement to 924 female and 200 male participants towards enterprise development l Provided seed money to 1,000 families to start businesses l Provided technical skills (welding, mobile phone servicing, tailoring, beauty and care, and electrical) training to 44 youths (33 females and 11 males) through a mentor-mentee approach for creating wage employment in the informal sector. Child, Not Bride (CNB) Project RDRS implements the CNB project in Kurigram district with the support of Norwegian State Broadcast Corporation (NRK Telethon) and Plan International Bangladesh. The project aims to reduce early child and forced marriage in Bangladesh. The CNB project focuses on youth leadership development, economic empowerment of youth, and increasing the knowledge of sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) of adolescents. The target group comprises girls aged 13-18 years who are most at risk of child marriage and their family members. The major activities accomplished during the reporting period are listed below. l Identified and selected project participants through Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) l Reformed 45 youth organisations, each with 36 youth members l Reformed six youth platforms at the sub-districts and one at the district level l Provided capacity development training to youth (220 girls, 153 boys) on leadership, organisational development and, Child Marriage Restraint Act, campaign and advocacy l Identified 180 (90 girls and 90 boys) youth champions and provided training to 56 youth champions on champion of change module (CoC) l Identified and selected 405 champion fathers and 405 champion mothers at the ward level and provided training on champion mother-father approach to 540 parents Provided training on quick income earning activities and business improvement to 924 female and 200 male participants towards enterprise development
21 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Child not Bride project girls are discussing issues on prevention of child marriage
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 22 Fight Slavery and Trafficking in Persons (FSTIP) RDRS is implementing the FSTIP project in Rangpur, Lalmonirhat, Gaibandha, Joypurhat and Sirajganj districts which are high-risk areas for trafficking because of their porous border with India and lower socio-economic conditions of the people due to climate change. A large number of people, especially women and young are trafficked from these localities. The project is supported by USAID, and RDRS is implementing the project with the technical partnership of Winrock International. The goal of FSTIP project is to reduce slavery and trafficking in persons through prevention, protection and establishing access to referral services. The major activities under the project are listed below. Safe migration, TIP and CM messages broadcasted through Radio Chilmari. Activated and strengthened 30 CTCs, 20 CMPCs and 12 GBV committees Three batches of training arranged for marriage registrars on CMRA 2017 Identified and supported 960 TIPs and CMs at risk TIP and CM survivors received referral and direct protection assistance (counselling, vocational training, livelihood reintegration support, etc) Trained 120 peer leader networks on TIP, CM, safe migration, and modern technology Identified and supported 50 migrants who returned due to the Covid pandemic Created a safe space where adolescent girls can discuss sensitive issues TIP and CM message broadcast through Radio Chilmari
23 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 FSTIP project
Md. Hanif Sardar was trying to eke out a living like millions of other small farmers. He owned a tiny piece of land and a couple of cows and worked as a farmhand. But the earnings were hardly enough to make ends meet for his two children and wife. The 31-year-old living in Khetlal upazila of Joypurhat then had a most alluring offer. A manpower agent offered him a job in Saudi Arabia. But it would cost BDT 450,000. Hanif sold his piece of land, his cows and then borrowed some more from his relatives. Then he sent the money to the broker. Hanif travelled to Saudi Arabia on 5 August 2022, but he was kept in a house for two months without any work. And then he was sent back. Apparently, his visa had expired. Hanif, who had left with dreams of a comfortable life came back home a broken man. He was under continuous pressure from those he had borrowed, and these included his members of extended family. He was in shock and stopped speaking to others. Having lost everything, he was not able to hold back the tears of his exasperation and anguish when he came upon the staff member of this project. The peer leader thought he would be a deserving case for assistance and recommended him as a potential candidate. Hanif was enrolled for case management support under FSTIP. The community and family counselling session included Hanif, his family as well as his friends. He received life skills training and submitted a complaint to BMET for compensation through FSTIP. In addition, he was referred to the upazila’s women affairs officer to include his family in a social safety net programme. Now, Hanif receives food packages as well as other assistance. “It’s a great support for me and my family at this moment of crisis,” said a grateful Hanif thanking RDRS. Hanif has returned to normal life since then and continues to live in his village home amid his family and friends. CASE STUDY I TURNING AROUND ONE LIFE AT A TIME RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 24
RDRS implements the PPJ project in Nilphamari, Lalmonirhat, and Panchagarh districts to activate and support legal aid committees at district, upazila and union councils and increase the visibility, public awareness, and community acceptance of government legal aid services. The project enables people to use the formal justice system to resolve disputes and protect their legal rights. The PPJ project is supported by USAID and being implemented in partnership with Democracy International. Bimonthly meetings with legal aid committees, courtyard meetings, campaigns, public hearings, day observation are the major activities of the project. Some major activities under the project are listed in the following table: 25 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Promoting Peace and Justice (PPJ) Project l 125 Bi-monthly meetings organised. l 1,161 Bi-monthly meetings with Union Parishad Legal Aid Committee (UPLAC) organised. l 1,346 Courtyard meetings facilitated. l 76 miking campaigns organised. l 27 Debate competitions organised. l 50 Folk songs and street dramas organised. l 30 Public hearings organised. l 42 Legal aid corners set up at Union Parishad offices. l 100 Legal aid information added in Union web portals. Federation member having courtyard discussion at the Chaklahat Union Federation premises RDRS has educated the community with information about legal rights and benefits of government legal aid services through this project. They are coming to district legal aid offices to receive legal aid advice, information, and legal aid services free of cost. Since the coordination among District Legal Aid Committee (DLAC), Upazila Legal Aid Committee (UZLAC), and UPLAC has been improved, community people’s access to government legal aid services has also increased. The PPJ project is supported by USAID and being implemented in partnership with Democracy International. Bimonthly meetings with legal aid committees, courtyard meetings, campaigns, public hearings, day observation are the major activities of the project.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 26 l 45 violence-affected women and girls received skills development training l 45 survivors and 55 at-risk of child marriage received life skills training and psycho-social counselling l 8 batches of orientation were conducted for CBO/union federations and community leaders on positive gender norms, preventing child marriage and reducing GBV l 2 life skills trainings were provided to adolescent centre members Transformation of Life for the Gender Based Violence Affected Girls (TLGBVAG) Project RDRS implements the project in Rangpur district with the support of Cordaid and Kerk in Actie. The goal of the project is to improve the socio-economic condition of Gender based violence affected youths, especially women and girls in Rangpur district. People benefited under this project includes women and girls who were at risk of or have been victims of GBV, adolescent, youth, CBO, child marriage prevention committee (CMPC) members and the community at large. The major activities accomplished under the project are listed below: Leadership development traing in Aditmari, Lalmonirhat l 7 batches of orientation were conducted for adolescents/youth forum members on life skills, GBV and safeguarding l 21 meetings with CBO, federation members, CMPC members, and community leaders on preventing child marriage and reducing GBV were held l 254 sensitisation sessions were conducted for adolescent centre members on preventing child marriage and reducing GBV l International Women’s Day and Girl Child Day observed
27 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 RDRS provides health services to disadvantaged and marginalised communities through its Core Comprehensive Programme in Rangpur Division and Jamalpur district. The programme is implemented with the support of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA). The programme aims to increase awareness and access to quality health services for the poor, particularly women and children. RDRS offers health facilities mainly to pregnant women, blind and visually impaired people, disadvantaged communities, and federation members which includes women, adolescent girls, and youth. The major components of RDRS health services are sexual and reproductive health support, eye care services, rehabilitation support for the visually impaired children. Health Core Comprehensive Programme Sexual and reproductive health support The project worked with community outreach and established linkages with service providers such as Community Clinic (CC) and Union Health and Family Welfare (UH&FW) centres to ensure Antenatal Care (ANC) services. It has also supported the community clinics to activate community groups and community support groups through regular meetings. Awareness messages were disseminated through Radio Chilmari (RDRS-run community radio) to support pregnant mothers with relevant information. Besides, the local communities were sensitised regarding Sexual Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR). RDRS health workers providing health services through satellite clinics in Debiduba, Panchagarh under ENRICH project
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 28 Cataract surgery at RDRS eyecare centre, Lalmonirhat Eye care service The primary eye health service was provided to poor people through screening sessions and end-of-class sessions at schools, eye camps at the community level, spectacles support, and eye surgery. A total of 22,096 patients received eye care service from eye care centre, Lalmonirhat out of which 279 were cataract surgery. 22,096 Patients received eye care service from eye care centre.
29 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Visually impaired children are provided braille education as well as vocational training the the RDRS rehabilitation centre in Lalmonirhat Septuagenarian Sonavan had leprosy when she was a child but her parents never got her the treatment she needed. As a result she lost the use of her limbs and fingers, and became crippled for life. Consequently Sonavan could never be married off either. The old woman from Khuniyagach Sadar of Lalmonirhat was living alone when she was finally cured of leprosy after a long treatment. But she had also lost her eyesight due to cataracts. The Lalmonirhat Civil surgeon referred her to the RDRS eyecare centre where she was diagnosed with posterior segmental capsular cataract. She needed a surgery to be able to see again. After getting operated in one eye at the RDRS centre, she got her sight back and returned within a month for a surgery in the other eye. Now she is able to see and has a better life thanks to her modest income-generating activities. CASE STUDY I BEAUTY IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER Rehabilitation centre for visually impaired children Situated in Lalmonirhat, the RDRS rehabilitation centre provides residential support to visually impaired children from underprivileged families. The residents received functional literacy, formal education through Braille, life skills training, and skills training on different market-driven trades. The rehabilitation centre also connects them with service providers to create a supportive environment for the visually impaired people for their rehabilitation. The programme transfers business start-up support and tools to start their own enterprise when they return to their homes. The rehabilitation centre also promotes its residents to take part in different cultural activities for their mental health and well-being.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 30 Name of the activity Achievement Training of community health promoters on maternal care services 75 Orientation for spouses of pregnant women at the community level 1,250 Meetings with existing FWC/CC management committees 81 Orientation sessions for school/college students on reproductive health and GBV 33 Health awareness sessions through Radio Chilmari 2 Day observation 2 Emergency support to pregnant mothers at risk 13 Screening sessions in schools 19 Eye camp at the community level 17 Spectacles support to poor people 455 Eye surgeries 425 Learning sessions for visually impaired children 17 The tasks accomplished during the reporting period are listed in the table below: The Community Health Promoters (CHWs) are local community members who work with pregnant mothers and their spouses to provide information and education about women’s health during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. They also provide information about facility-based maternal and child health services at the Community Clinic (CC), Family Welfare Centre (FWC), Upazila & District Health Complex. The maternal health
31 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 care services offered by these facilities include antenatal care (ANC), delivery care, and postnatal care (PNC). However, they are encouraging expectant mothers to visit CC to guarantee prenatal and postnatal care, which has improved maternal and new-born safety and decreased death rates. They act as a link between the community and the community clinic to improve the provision of maternal health services. The aforementioned activities also help raise knowledge among teenagers about sexual and reproductive health, particularly the management of menstrual hygiene, which protects teenage females from several communicable and non-communicable illnesses. In remote areas such as wetlands and char regions, screening sessions are conducted to detect eye abnormalities of children, adolescents, and adults. This helps them take early preventive actions to preserve their vision. Furthermore, visually impaired children are growing more independent and participating in mainstream activities because of their education and skill enhancement. RDRS health workers providing health services through satellite clinics in Debiganj, Panchagarh under ENRICH project.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 32 RDRS implements the project in partnership with icddr,b (International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh) and support of USAID. The project works for children aged 0-14 in Rangpur, Kurigram and Lalmonirhat districts aiming to reduce tuberculosis among children. The objectives of the project are to diagnose at least 5% child TB cases and provide treatment under DOTS, develop the capacity of service providers and stakeholders on childhood TB, and develop a referral mechanism to ensure effective screening, treatment, and management of child TB. Community awareness on child TB and, early case diagnosis, and the number of case notifications in Rangpur, Lalmonirhat and Kurigram districts has increased through the project. RDRS health workers collecting caugh sample for detecting TB patients. Alliance for combating TB in Bangladesh Activities Achievement Inception meeting with stakeholders 117 Orientation for CHCP 323 Orientation for graduate private practitioners 101 Awareness sessions for school children 4,300 students Awareness sessions for federation members 1,300 members Child TB case detection 140 The key activities accomplished during the reporting period are listed in the table below:
33 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Integrated TB Care and Prevention for Enhancing Case Findings, Health System Strengthening and Sustainability Project RDRS is implementing the Integrated TB Care and Prevention project in Lalmonirhat and Kurigram districts under the National Tuberculosis Programme. The project is supported by GFATM/BRAC and benefits around 86,000 people in the project area. The overall goal of the project is to reduce morbidity, mortality, and transmission of TB in Bangladesh until it is no longer a public health problem. Activities Number Orientation on TB, Malaria, HIV and Covid-19 56 Courtyard meetings to mitigate TB, HIV, Malaria and Covid-19 56 Opinion leader orientation 30 Networking meeting with graduate PPs/ Paediatricians 01 TB campaign at sub-district/urban areas (remote and underserved areas) 168 Outreach sputum collection service in special situations 168 Patient investigation support 3319 Presumptive TB patients 80304 Total registered patients 6098 The key activities accomplished during the reporting period under this project are listed below: The main achievements of the project are listed below: l Achieved 84/100,000 new smear positive case notification against NTP target of 70/100,000 l Achieved 177/100,000 TB new case (all forms) notification against NTP target of 170/100,000. l Achieved 94.90% treatment success rate against NTP target of 85%. 94.90% Treatment success rate
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 34 Strengthening the Maternal and Neonatal Health System SONGO_An RDRS trained staff facilitating oientation on food and nutrition for mother and child RDRS implements the Strengthening the Maternal and Neonatal Health System project (Jononi project) in Rangpur and Lalmonirhat district of Bangladesh to provide health support to pregnant women, newborns, adolescents husbands, mothers-in-law of pregnant women, and women of reproductive age in its working area. The objective of the project is to reduce maternal mortality and child mortality. The project is implemented in collaboration with Save the Children and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is the funding partner. The major activities undertaken by the project are the promotion of gender equality, reproductive health and family planning, effectiveness of antenatal and postnatal care, awareness campaign for the prohibition of child marriage and risk of adolescent pregnancy, training of health workers and government officials, renovation of health facilities, support to expand of satellite clinics, emergency referral support in the community, and support for activating government monitoring of healthcare facilities. Key accomplishments under the project are listed below: l Safe Motherhood Day was observed in collaboration with GoB l 26 midwives were deployed at the union level in Rangpur and Lalmonirhat districts l 18 facility assessments for renovation were completed l Assessment of union-level health facilities from MNH readiness perspective completed to identify equipment, medicine and supply needs. l Trained midwives have provided with 1,875 ANC, 495 PNC and 105 NVD services in the communities.
35 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Education Promoting Education for Early Learners Project Children books - Reading with pleasure RDRS Bangladesh implements the USAID’s Promoting Education for Early Learners projector Sisimpur project in Habiganj and Moulvibazar districts in partnership with Sesame Workshop Bangladesh. The project was funded by USAID. The target group of the project is early grades learners (Preprimary to Grade 2), marginalised and girl children, children with disabilities, teachers, school authorities, parents and caregivers, stakeholders, and the local community. The Early Learners Project is contributing to increasing awareness among parents and communities, building capacity for teachers, and ensuring access and quality education for early learners. The project’s objective is to improve the learning outcomes of marginalised children by creating an inclusive and enabling environment. The programme precisely focuses on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the selected 250 schools. The overall aim of the project is to continue education through a pleasant environment for school going children from PrePrimary to Grade-II. Apart from this, parents or communities are also being covered by this programme through PTLF formation, regular meeting, parents gathering, parenting session like this type of school and community based multiactivities. While the main theme of this project is diversity, equity and inclusion, this programme is working to create awareness in improving literacy and life skills by applying a holistic, multi-dimensional education approach. Through community outreach programming, the project will further reach children and caregivers with messages focused on diversity, inclusion, and gender equity to reinforce messages learned in school, as well as reach and support children who may not be attending school.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 36 The major activities accomplished under the project are listed in the following table: Activities Achievement Classroom Branding (Print Rich) - painting and decoration in Classrooms (Pre-Primary to Grade-II) 250 schools Complete learner’s survey and finalise students’ information database under Year 2 20,153 students are admitted Libraries installed and storybooks distribution in schools 56,250 story books distributed in 250 schools Capacity building of teachers on Library management & functioning 250 teachers Teacher Basic Training on Inclusive Education 1,001 teachers Assistant teachers received refresher training 858 teachers Head Teachers Training on Inclusive Education 250 teachers Head teachers received refresher training 245 teachers Quarterly parent-teachers learning forum (PTLF) meetings 250 schools Quarterly parents’ sessions 250 schools Classroom decorated with wall paintings 250 schools Students’ reception in the academic year-2023 22,481 students Conduct Inclusive Education Event through observed any education focused day Observed International Literacy Day in 250 schools Conduct yearly Refreshers Workshop One Consultation Meeting at District Level, Upazila Level and School level regular basis 4
37 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Out of School Children Education Programme This project aims to provide another opportunity for primary education to the dropped-out and never-enrolled children (age group of 8-14 years old). The project offers non-formal education to bring the out of school children into mainstream formal education. RDRS implements the Out of School Children Education Programme in Sylhet, Moulvibazar, Habiganj and Panchagarh districts with the support of Bureau of Non-formal Education (BNFE) benefiting 44,491 learners. The major activities undertaken by the programme are mobilising communities at the district, upazila, union and ward levels, establishing learning centres, campaigning, identifying, mapping, and enrolling learners, training teachers and supervisors, ensuring transition of students to higher grade levels after completing primary level. The activities have been accomplished of planned activities under the program are as follows. Activities Achievement Conduct foundation training of LC teachers and supervisors following the training guideline including post training assessment. 1,622 Provide learning centre materials 1,511 Provide teaching learning materials to the learners 44,491 Refreshers training for teachers and supervisors 1,622 Teachers’ coordination meeting 264 CMC meeting 132 Parents meeting 88 Droppoed out schoold children pix goes here.... CAPTION: Dropped-out and never-enrolled children, age group of 8-14 years old picture goes here....
Jaintapur Upazila of Sylhet District is a remote area surrounded by the India-border. Tourism area Jaintapur upazila is also called Paharkanya. Although the upazila is ahead in terms of beauty and tourism but it is far behind in terms of education. A village named Boirakhel in Nijpat Union of Jaintapur upazila is very outof-the-way due to hilly ground. The distance of the village from the upazila is about 12 km. About 700 households live in this hilly village that very remote area. The people of the village are deprived of basic needs. There is no educational institution within 5 kms of the village. Therefore, the children of this village are far away from primary education. Although there is a primary school 5 km away but reaching is very difficult and it is not possible for them to go to school during the rainy season. As a result, the numbers of children who dropped-out of primary education were continues increasing. RDRS Bangladesh is implementing the “Out of School Children Education Programme” through non-formal education with the aim of eliminating illiteracy supported by BNFE. Since 2012, efforts are being made to bring the light of education to the village. Notably, in 2012, 2016 and 2022, frequently there are 10, 36 and 37 students are completing secondary and higher education respectively. Currently there are 70 dropped-out children are getting second chance for primary education through 2 NFPSs. Mentionable, learning is being provided by various entertainments and in a pleasant environment. Students are provided with free stipend, dress, bag and educational materials. The parents are very happy to send their children to the school too. Now, the disadvantageous remote village is illuminated with the light of education. RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 38 CASE STUDY THE REMOTE AREAS ARE BEING ILLUMINATED BY THE LIGHT OF EDUCATION Emergency edication kits distribution to school children in Biswanath, Sylhet.
RDRS is operating 10 primary schools in chars (sandbar island) in six unions of Kurigram district with support from LLT (Lutheran Life Together) Japan. The main objective of the project is to improve the living standard and ensure education for the underprivileged children living in the chars of Kurigram district. The students of the chars who are vulnerable, poor, and unable reaching out to school situated in far distance get admission in these schools. A total of 300 students are now studying in the 10 schools. These schools are facilitated by 10 teachers. In the last year, 80 per cent of students achieved A+ grade and 20 per cent of students achieved A grade in Primary Education Certificate (PEC) examination. The student attendance in these schools were 100 per cent. The School Management Committee played an active role in functioning the education in the schools. 39 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Primary Education for Disadvantaged Children in Char Area Education is a right for all children RDRS is operating 10 primary schools in chars students are now studying in the 30010 schools
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 40 Agriculture, food security and climate change Understanding Farm-household Management Decision-Making for Increased Productivity in the Eastern Gangetic Plains (FBIP) project RDRS implements FBIP project in Rangpur, Dinajpur, Lalmonirhat and Nilphamari districts targeting 780 small farmers. The project is being implemented with the technical support of the University of Western Australia and funded by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). FBIP is a research project aiming to understand the decision-making behaviour of farm households on the adoption of innovations and critical factors that influence these decisions. Farmers always adopt new technologies after observing their benefits and user-friendly features like low production cost and quicker harvest. Thus, the technology becomes well-integrated when farmers find the features genuinely beneficial. Farmers have appreciated the economic value of mechanisation in their farming systems after participating in the project. This project has increased their interest in adopting Conservation Agriculture-based Sustainable Intensification (CASI) technologies. The farmers who adopted CASI shared its benefits like reduced production costs, time savings, and labor savings with other farmers. As a result, approximately 250 farmers replicated this technology in their cropping fields self-incentivized. At the household level, more farmers are now considering the gender aspect in their decision-making process and women’s participation in farm-household decision-making has increased. The farmers have also become aware of how mechanisation might boost their farming system’s economic value. The major activities conducted under the project are listed below. Post-intervention survey, and endline household survey conducted Group FGD conducted key informant 123 interviews conducted Household survey conducted among 780 farmers Power tiller with seeder distributed through CBOs Communication materials developed
41 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Major activities conducted under the project are listed below. l A total 650 city dwellers received training on safe and nutritious food management for behavior change communications. At the same time, 10 women and youth groups have been formed in city food system groups. l The project has conducted 21 road shows to identify potential entrepreneurs by creating a Farmers’ Hub. So far, 125 women and men have expressed their interest in becoming entrepreneurs. l A total of 13 Farmers’ Hub entrepreneurs has continued seedling production and have been able to sell products worth BDT 2,70,500 each month, with a total seedling production of Tk 2,25,500. l Furthermore, technical training has been provided to 2,400 farmers and 32 Farmers’ Hub entrepreneurs on safe and nutritious food production, storage, management, and marketing. l Input support packages have been provided to 27 farmer’s hub entrepreneurs, along with 200 farmers, to assist them in their farming activities. Additionally, 102 demonstration plots have been established to showcase safe crop production techniques, involving 121 farmers, and covering 1,350 decimal lands. l The project provided 5 vegetable-covered vans at the city level to beneficiaries. The vans collect safe and nutritious vegetables from hub farmers and sell them to 10 mobile van vegetable sellers and 10 vegetable shops at Dhap City Bazaar. Nutrition in City Ecosystems (NICE) RDRS implements the Nutrition in City Ecosystems (NICE) project in Rangpur town and city corporation area, Mithapukur and Pirgacha upazilas with the support of Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture Bangladesh (SAF) and Swiss Agency for Development Cooperation (SDC). The project aims to achieve zero hunger, food security, and ensure better nutrition. The activities of the project are being implemented through three major components – strengthening multi-sectoral platform at city corporation and SBC of city dwellers, entrepreneur development and establishing farmers’ hubs for value chain and safe food production, and distribution of vegetable carts, street food carts, and covered vans. The NICE project connects demand and supply of food systems, engages women and youth through social business models and builds local governance capacity. This project meets the nutrition needs in urban areas and supplies an affordable healthy diet and safe food that are locally produced following sustainable agricultural practices. The project is contributing to the improvement of health, nutrition, and poverty reduction of the urban population particularly women, youth and people at risk. NICE – The nursary owner selling healthy vegetable seedlings.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 42 Focus Group Discussion (Rupantar) Transforming Smallholder Food Systems (Rupantar) Project RDRS implements the Rupantar project in Rangpur, Lalmonirhat and Nilphamari districts in collaboration with the University of Adelaide and funded by Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). The goal of the project is to understand the processes and practices for transforming food systems through diversification, to improve farm livelihoods while reducing inequality, production risk, and unsustainable resource use. Improving the livelihoods of women and men through diversification of food systems is one of the core aims of this project. The project expects that farmers will have the ability to transition to diversified farming systems that increase incomes, ensure equity in terms of access and impacts, and minimise risk. Improving the livelihoods of women and men through diversification of food systems is one of the core aims of this project. The project expects that farmers will have the ability to transition to diversified farming systems that increase incomes, ensure equity in terms of access and impacts, and minimise risk.
43 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Sustained Opportunities for Nutrition Governance (SONGO) RDRS is implementing the SONGO project in six upazila of Kurigram and Gaibandha with the aim to improve maternal and child nutrition. The project is being implemented with the partnership of Cordaid Bangladesh and supported by the European Union. RDRS is working for 112,000 households under this project. Major activities and achievements under this project are listed below. SONGO – An RDRS trained staff facilitating oientation on food and nutrition for mother and child l Upazila nutrition governance structures strengthened. l Health service delivery mechanisms strengthened at the local level. l Community people including mothers and adolescents received community clinic services. l Promoted climate-smart agricultural technologies and good agricultural practices. l Nutritional information system enhanced at the union and Upazila level. l 27 latrines installed and 45 tube-well platforms repaired. l 45,000 producer group members received starter kits for homestead food production. l 875 WASH maps developed at the ward level. l Capacity improved of 50 cleaning workers for safe pit cleaning and personal safety. l Facilitated Union Parishad’s open budget sessions at 18 Union Parishads. l Organised 5 nutrition fairs and identified 92 community nutrition champions. l Set up 162 model homestead food production plots and provided support.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 44 Once a homemaker living on the remote shoal of Jadurchar Natungram in Rowmari of Kurigram, Hasina Begum has managed to turn into what locals now fondly call ‘Pushti Apa’ (meaning nutrition sister in English). The 34-year-old mother of three says, “RDRS showed me a way to serve the community and create an earning source.” It all began when one day, one of her children told her about a group meeting discussing nutrition. Consequently, she communicated with the community facilitator and union facilitator and expressed her wish to work on nutrition for the community. She was then selected as a nutrition sales agent. As the Pushti Apa, Hasina goes around the community promoting nutrition. She measures blood pressure and weight for free and advises mothers and adolescent girls about eating nutritious food regularly. Hasina also sells medicine and nutritional commodities with low profit along with necessary vitamin and mineral tablets within the community. In April 2023, Hasina sold health commodities worth BDT 294,940 and earned profit of nearly BDT 20,000. At present women in the chars (river islands or shoals) are able to give safe birth to healthy children reducing the extent of malnourishment with better access to primary health services. Each nutrition sales agent has become skilled and knowledgeable through various trainings on nutrition, health, servicing lactating and pregnant mothers, and also care of newborns. Now the pregnant and lactating women in Hasina’s ward are aware of health and nutrition. “I am always trying to advocate a good environment where women of reproductive age and their children are healthy,” says a confident Hasina. She has built a strong network with health service providers like the Hazi Niamatullah Hospital for severe cases. When she identifies complicated pregnancies, Hasina sends them to the nearest hospital or local community clinic for safe delivery. Hasina is always keen to expand her earnings as well. This led her to communicate with local NGOs and other companies. As a result, she now sells bandhu chula (friendly stove) and earns more by selling them in the community. Hasina believes that raising the awareness of women in reproductive age and adolescents through the nutrition sales agents, the infant and maternal mortality has been gradually reduced. She thanks SONGO project for opening her eyes to get involved with community work and at the same time providing her with an additional income. “But it is most rewarding to see my status and popularity in the community. I feel much more respected and, more importantly, empowered.” CASE STUDY I PUSHTI APA FIGHTS MALNUTRITION Pusti apa’r picture goes here....
45 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Major achievements under this project are listed below. l Developed 30 Local Service Providers (LSPs) to ensure the provision of vaccination and deworming services, as well as promoting good agricultural practices on farms. l Promoted sale of 69 metric ton of high-quality feed at the farm level to establish sub-dealer points of ready feed. l One auto hatchery developed to produce duck chicks, and transformed two local poultry chain shop factories, along with a sales system. l To protect the environment, five compostmaking points were established. l 19 poultry rearers were trained on financial management using ICT technology. l 13 payment gateways opened at the entrepreneur level for cashless transactions. l 17 sub-dealer points and 10 vaccine hubs cum sub-dealer points have been established for preserving the vaccine and maintaining a cool chain. l 1,800 farmers were trained in poultry rearing, with 140 farmers receiving GLOBAL GAP training. RDRS implements the RMTP (sub project - Market System Development of Safe Poultry and Poultry Products) project in Rangpur, Kurigram and Gaibadha Districts with the support of Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). The project is working to increase income, ensure food security and improve family nutrition of marginal and small farmers and poultry-related backward and forward market entrepreneurs. The RMT project is also working on the sustainable growth of poultry value chains with comparative advantage, market demand, value addition at various levels, expansion of financial services for enterprise development, and strengthening of the institutional framework for the development of safe eggs, meat, and meat products of the value chain. The project is directly working with 10,000 small entrepreneurs of poultry products. The major activities under the project include developing local service providers with vaccine hub and sub-dealer points, promotion of quality feed at the farm level, extension of good quality breed to increase poultry production and poultry products (meat and eggs), auto hatchery development, development of poultry meat processing plants, transformation, development of certification and marketing system, making compost from chicken litter, eggshells, cow waste and other decomposable wastes, account keeping through digital technology. Rural Microenterprise Transformation Project (RMTP) 1,800 farmers were trained in poultry rearing
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 46 Md. Hachen Ali was struggling to make ends meet with his two sons and wife. The meagre earnings he had were not sufficient. Coming from a large household of nine siblings, Hachen’s father could not afford to send him to school, so Hachen’s livelihood options were rather limited. This is when he took up poultry farming. He could not make a large investment which is why the profits were not much either. And he was still having a hard time feeding his family and meeting the household needs. The poor farmer from Bamondanga union of Sundarganj upazila under Gaibandha then trained on a new method of hatchery production from the upazila’s livestock department in 2005 and started producing duck chicks using the Tush Method for the next eight years. Not seeing good returns, Hachen Ali proceeded to produce ducklings manually till 2022. But the money was never really satisfactory. This is when he came across the RDRS project providing technical assistance in poultry development which began working in 25 unions in September 2022. At one point, he met with the project’s business development officer of Sundarganj upazila and found out that there were some grants available under the project too for the development of a hatchery in Bamondanga union. Hachen said he was interested. Thus, began his journey with funds, technical support and advice. First, he purchased 150 Peking ducks as parent stock from another farm of Sundarganj. He never looked back after that. Within a few months, Hachen bought a 4,600-egg capacity auto hatchery machine from Bogura in January 2023, which he started with his parent stock of Peking ducks. Currently, Hachen Ali’s farm has 136-strong parent stock with another 186 month-old Peking duck chicks. Every day he gets 70 eggs from the parent stock. The hatchery has a capacity for 4,600 eggs every month of which Hachen gets 2,100 from his own farm and the remainder he collects from other farms. The hatchery has a success rate of 75-80%, which he expects to improve. The duck chicks are sold to local farmers and traders and online markets. Excluding all the expenses, Hachen now earns BDT 45,000- 50,000 every month. In the future, Hachen Ali wants to increase the parent stock and set up another hatchery. Hachen expresses his deep gratitude to the project for helping him get on his feet. CASE STUDY I ALI’S AUTO HATCHERY Ali’s Auto Hatchery Agriculture CC (RMTP)
47 RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 Microfinance Programme A microentreprenur making snacks for selling in the shop Microfinance is one of the most important elements to improve the livelihoods of poor and marginal farmers. Over the decades, microfinance growth continued in depth and breadth and clients’ demands for loans increased significantly. Thus, microenterprise loans were introduced, and successful clients now have access to microenterprise loans. Beyond the group loans, marginal people who do not have access to bank loans due to lack of collateral, for those doors open for lateral entry to microenterprise loans. RDRS Bangladesh microfinance program’s major focus is still group lending where the maximum number of poor women (92%) had access to financial services. RDRS microfinance programme is structurally divided into two- Udayan (Group lending) and Unnati (Individual Lending). However, small and marginal farmers have access to loans through both programs based on their choice and the size of the loan. As of June 2023, the microfinance program has expanded its coverage to 138 subdistricts (Upazila) in 29 districts across the country. RDRS offers microfinance services through 284 branch offices mostly located in rural and semi-rural areas. As of June 2023, the total number of members is 427,160 out of those 336,909 are active borrowers. 92% (311,236) of borrowers are women. The total outstanding loan is BDT 12.894 billion and the members’ savings stand at BDT 4.491 billion.
RDRS Annual Report 2022-23 48 Financial products and services RDRS offers client-centric and demand-driven diversified financial products and services, i.e. microloans, microentrepreneur loans, agricultural loans, water and sanitation loans, diversified savings products like general and voluntary savings, monthly savings deposit schemes (MSDS), double benefit savings scheme (DBSS) and compulsory savings to cover. RDRS also has loan insurance for the borrowers and their spouses. Financial products are developed considering the needs of various clients to ease their repayment and growth. The procedures are simplified with minimum documentation to allow quick access to financial services. Microloan (Udayan) – The loan is envisioned for rural and urban poor households to assist economic and non-economic activities. Udayan loan aims to increase family income and assets for resilience building. Loan amount varying between BDT 10,000 and BDT 500,000, Udayan prioritises women and youth. RDRS branches are located close to the borrowers and staff collect loan instalments and savings from the clients in group meetings. So the borrowers do not need to visit branches except for their loan disbursement date. Before the loan is processed, potential borrowers receive orientation on terms and conditions and repayment modalities. These microloans also cover agricultural loans, housing loans, emergency loans, etc. During the FY 2022-2023, 299,070 borrowers received microloans worth BDT 16.938 billion. Microentrepreneur Loan (Unnati) – The microentrepreneur (ME) loan is mainly for the graduated borrowers from microloans but lateral entry is also possible for the potential clients. The objective of the microenterprise loan is to support business growth and create wage employment opportunities for the poor. Microentrepreneur loans are considered individual loans. The Unnati loans range from BDT 2,00,000–to BDT 20,00,000. However, the larger loans require some form of collateral. Unnati loans prioritize youth and women entrepreneurs, and the rate of interest depends on the volume of the loan. The rate varies from 20% to 24%. In the FY 2022-2023, 11,038 borrowers received BDT 3.767 billion Unnati loans. Agriculture Loan – In rural areas, small and marginal farmers needs loan before plantation seasons. RDRS microfinance program has developed a special loan product for small and marginal farmers called SMAP loans. The funding is coming from Bangladesh Bank, especially for agriculture production and agro-processing sector. In 2022-23, BDT 458.82 million was disbursed among 7,426 borrowers as agriculture loans (agriculture, livestock, and agro-machinery) and the cumulative disbursement stands at about BDT 3.459 billion in this project. In 2022-23, a total of 39,971 borrowers received technical support services (TSS) to implement their IGAs. Besides, through the commercial bank linkage funding and Palli Karma Shayak Foundation (PKSF) funding agriculture loan is also disbursed to the small and marginal farmers. The total agriculture loan disbursed during the year stands at BDT 13,232.31 million which is 64% of the total loans disbursed during the year. Water and Sanitation Loan- A water and sanitation loan is provided to improve the health and hygiene condition of borrowers’ families. The economic benefit of the microfinance program is often eroded due to the poor health condition of the borrowers and their families. Thus, RDRS launched WASH loan facilities in collaboration with water.org. In FY 2022-23, BDT 434.98 million has been disbursed among 17,968 members. The cumulative disbursement stands at about BDT 1.22 billion. The maximum loan size is BDT 100,000. These loans may be repaid in monthly or weekly installments. RDRS launched the Bangladesh Rural WASH for Human Capital Development Project (BD Rural WASH for HCD Project) SECTORWISE LOAN DISBURSEMENT Agriculture Trade and small trade Water and Sanitation 3% Others 10% 65% 22%