BRAC, USAID launch Bangladesh-America Maitree Project to empower local NGOs

The Bangladesh-America Maitree Project, funded by the USAID and implemented by BRAC, has awarded grants worth $7.534 million (Tk89.65 crore) to 18 local non-governmental organisations for the first year of the project. 

This initiative is designed to strengthen the operational capacities of the selected NGOs, enabling them to address key regional development challenges through targeted project implementation, reads a press release.

The grantees, which are working in crucial sectors such as agriculture, food security, health, education, child rights and protection, were chosen for their innovative approaches and commitment to fostering sustainable development. These local NGOs are poised to make a significant impact in addressing Bangladesh's pressing socio-economic issues.

The official Grant Awarding Ceremony was held today (13 November) at Hotel Sheraton in Dhaka.

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan attended the event as the chief guest, while Md Saidur Rahman, director general of the NGO Affairs Bureau, attended as the guest of honour. Special guests included Reed Aeschliman, mission director of USAID Bangladesh, and Asif Saleh, executive director of BRAC.

In her keynote address, Syeda Rizwana Hasan emphasised the importance of removing barriers to NGO participation in development, stating, "If Bangladesh is to harness the power of non-state actors in driving development, we must first remove barriers that hinder their participation.

"Streamlining the NGO registration process is a crucial step in this direction. By simplifying fund accessibility, we enable local organisations to engage more actively and effectively, paving the way for a more inclusive and impactful development landscape in Bangladesh."

Md Saidur Rahman, Director General of the NGO Affairs Bureau, said, "Our commitment extends beyond just funding. We aim to strengthen the capabilities of NGOs by enhancing communication and alignment with donors, ensuring that projects are sustainable and continue to benefit communities long after their completion."

USAID Bangladesh Mission Director Reed Aeschliman highlighted the long-term vision of USAID's involvement in Bangladesh's development.

BRAC's Executive Director Asif Saleh shared insights into the project's approach. 

He said, "The Maitree project marks a shift from traditional aid models, recognizing that solutions rooted in local understanding are the most impactful. By supporting organisations closest to the communities, we ensure that development is driven by the needs and insights of those who understand the challenges best."

The Bangladesh-America Maitree Project is a five-year USAID-funded initiative implemented by BRAC in collaboration with FHI 360 and BRAC USA. With a focus on empowering local NGOs and fostering innovation, the project aims to provide the necessary support for their growth in sectors such as agriculture, health, and education. By partnering with these organisations, the Maitree Project is committed to building a more inclusive and prosperous Bangladesh, contributing to the country's broader development goals.