The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), together with the Ministry of Agriculture and Sara Bangla Krishak Society (SBKS), launched a project called Accelerating Economic and Social Inclusion through Strong Producers’ Organisations in Bangladesh (ACCESS) on Thursday.

The project aims to strengthen rural livelihoods for over 25,000 smallholder farmers in climate hotspots.

Members of the farming community, government organisations, the private sector, and development partners participated in the event.

Agriculture Secretary Wahida Akter joined the event as the chief guest.

“In order to reach the last mile for the community who is struggling with the effects of climate change, we must innovate inclusive business model like the ACCESS project, which facilitates tangible collaboration among producer organizations, and the public and private sector, she said.

Dia Sanou, FAO Representative in Bangladesh, said, “FAO works with smallholder producer organisations as our partners to strengthen rural livelihoods as part of ACCESS project. Together, we will focus on agribusiness clusters and support smallholders to transform their subsistence farms into successful businesses.”

Participants from various organisations, including Bangladesh Krishi Bank, PKSF, Bangladesh Bank, Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation, the Department of Agricultural Extension, and the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council, were also on the panel and discussed potential support that their organisations can provide.

Rita Bramma, President of SBKS, said, “We are very grateful to all who have come together in support of smallholder farmers in Bangladesh. Your support ensures that we can continue our work to uplift those struggling with the effects of climate change.”

Following the inaugural session, an informal working session took place between FAO, SBKS, and almost 100 members of the farming community from climate hotspots.