CARE Bangladesh commemorated its 75th anniversary today at a national event held at the Radisson Blu Dhaka Water Garden hotel. The celebration began with the national anthem and flag-raising ceremony, followed by speeches from distinguished guests and two panel discussions in the afternoon.

Ram Das, Country Director of CARE Bangladesh, welcomed attendees and reflected on the organization’s rich history, present endeavors, and future plans. Since its establishment in 1949 (in the then-East Pakistan), CARE has partnered with the Bangladesh government in development initiatives, playing a crucial role in rebuilding the country after its independence in 1971.

The event drew esteemed guests, including representatives from donor communities, development partners, and the Bangladeshi government. They shared experiences in the development sector and engaged in discussions aimed at inspiring future initiatives. Michelle Nunn, President and CEO of CARE, extended her congratulations via a video message, emphasizing the organization’s commitment to creativity and innovation in transforming lives.

USAID Bangladesh Mission Director Reed Aeschliman praised CARE’s partnership in development, stating, “We have a unique opportunity to pave the way for future generations through sustained collaboration.” Md. Saidur Rahman, Director General of the NGO Affairs Bureau, highlighted CARE’s historical contributions, particularly in infrastructure development.

Gwyn Lewis, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bangladesh, commended CARE’s efforts in poverty reduction, women’s empowerment, and climate adaptation. British High Commissioner to Bangladesh, Sarah Cooke, noted that CARE has impacted one in every five people in the country over its 70 years of service.

In the afternoon, panel discussions focused on "Climate Resilience" and "Sustainable Futures for Women in the RMG Sector." Ramesh Singh, Regional Director – Asia at CARE, expressed the organization’s ambition to expand its impact globally.

Currently, CARE Bangladesh operates in areas such as Health and Nutrition, Women and Youth Empowerment, Humanitarian Aid, and Climate Action. With a goal to support 15 million people, particularly women and girls, by 2030, CARE aims to lead in gender equality and resilience-building as part of its 2030 country program strategy.

Founded in 1945 with the introduction of the CARE Package, CARE is a prominent humanitarian organization focused on fighting global poverty. In FY23, CARE Bangladesh reached 5.3 million people through over 48 projects, with 64% of those served being women, making it the second highest contributor among CARE’s global operations.