SCB and Friendship boost char farmers' productivity and Income

 Standard Chartered Bangladesh and Friendship have successfully concluded the second phase of their agricultural development initiative, which aims to empower 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. The partnership has demonstrated agriculture's vital role in fostering sustainable development by addressing food security and bolstering individual prosperity.

Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Chief Executive Officer of 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 helping farmers secure their livelihoods and contributing to food security and inclusive growth for the nation. Equipping farmers with the necessary knowledge, tools, and connections enables 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 marginalised communities face. By providing farmers with access to innovative technologies, training, and market opportunities, we are improving food production and 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, fertilisers, and pesticides, alongside training to maximise 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, protected extreme weather events, ensuring the continuity of agricultural efforts.

Livestock management was also prioritised, 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.

For more than 120 years, 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 Organisation, has been dedicated to serving marginalised communities for over 22 years. Guided by its four commitments—saving lives, alleviating poverty, climate adaptation, and empowerment—Friendship continues transforming lives and communities across Bangladesh.