Recent Highlights in Bangladesh

Public Expenditure Management Training

August 29, 2011

Promoting Governance, Accountability, Transparency and Integrity program initiated a three-day training for think-tanks and civil society organizations involved in budget analysis work.  The training, on Public Expenditure Management, includes a focus on the basic elements of public expenditure management as well as the systems used to track data.  The participants, representing nine Bangladeshi organizations including Unnayan Shammanay, the Center for Policy Dialogue, Bangladesh Institute for Development Studies, Policy Research Institute and Naripokkho, are working collaboratively to conduct analysis based on the training sessions.

Members of Parliament Report Interest on Development

August 29, 2011

USAID’s legislative strengthening project, Promoting Democratic Institutions and Practices, completed interviews with 100 Members of Parliament as part of a comprehensive perception study which will, ultimately, compare and contrast MPs’ opinions against those of the general public to identify issues of common interest and also gaps in perception over the role and performance of Parliament.  Early analysis of the interview shows that MPs have little awareness of development issues and harbor negative perceptions of NGOs, but they view constituency development as one of their prime responsibilities.  MPs say they are heavily influenced by personal contact from citizens and self-report receiving thousands of phone calls each week from constituents. 

Supporting Bangladesh’s labor union movement

August 29, 2011

Dr. Kimberly Ludwig, the Senior Civil Society and Labor Advisor from USAID/Washington completed her visit to Bangladesh which included finalization of a new five-year labor program in Bangladesh that will be implemented by the American Center for International Labor Solidarity.  During her visit, Dr. Ludwig met with trade unions, as well as leaders from national federations, NGOs and factories in the Export Processing Zone (EPZ) in Dhaka to better understand the current labor situation and the challenges that labor leaders face in organizing and protecting workers rights in Bangladesh. Discussion also focused on the efficacy of USAID assistance through the Global Labor Program in promoting leadership in the labor sector, ensuring labor compliance and increasing access to justice for the workers in Ready-Made Garment factories, EPZs and shrimp industries. 

Bangladesh Police Green-Light Community-Based Policing Activities in Northwest

August 16, 2011

Bangladesh Police Headquarters issued a circular to all stations in Rajshahi and Rangpur divisions (north-west of Bangladesh)requesting them “to extend their support and cooperation” to USAID’s Community-Based Policing (CBP) activity as implemented by The Asia Foundation (TAF).  The letter closely followed a July 25 (2011) meeting between representative of USAID, ICITAP(DOJ) and the FBI with Additional Inspector General of Police (AIGP) intended to overcome the final bureaucratic hurdles on the implementation of the CBP project in those two divisions. USAID’s CBP project is working to improve relations between citizens and law enforcement to strengthen public security, and enhancing citizen participation and capacity to hold police accountable to community policing practices. 

Parliament and Civil Society Tackle Agriculture Policy Together

August 16, 2011

Mindful of the centrality of food security to Bangladeshis as prices of essentials rise on the approach of Ramadan, two USAID projects brought together lawmakers with civil society experts to tackle the issue from two different angles. 

USAID’s legislative strengthening program PRODIP, gathered 25 Members of Parliament – including Minister of Agriculture and chairmen of the Committee on Agriculture and the Committee on Fisheries and Livestock – to learn how the latest research can help Bangladeshi farmers and aqua-culturists adapt to changes in the climate and the market.  At USAID’s suggestion, the presenters from Bangladesh Agricultural University are considering hosting MPs in the future at their campus in Mymensingh where they will be able to observe their laboratories firsthand and can sample saline-resistant rice, drought-resistant rice, and other specially adapted food crops.

Under USAID’s anti-corruption program PROGATI -  Unnayn Shamannay, a Bangladeshi think tank, conducted a roundtable session for MPs that focused on exploring mechanisms Parliament can implement to enhance its ability to track the Ministry of Agriculture’s spending.

USAID’s ACT Program Recruits Partners in Government, Academia to Confront Human Trafficking

August 16, 2011

Five of the Ministry of Expatiates’ Welfare and Overseas Employment’s newly appointed labor attaches received an orientation on illegal migration and labor trafficking from USAID’s Actions for Combating Trafficking in Persons (ACT) program prior to their deployment to Oman, Jordan, and multiple locations in Saudi Arabia.  These GOB representatives can play an important role in anti-trafficking efforts as well as supporting migrants at risks of trafficking in destination countries and hopes to leverage its good relationship with the Ministry to become a regular contributor to these irregularly scheduled trainings.

The ACT program also signed an agreement with the Department of Law at Northern University Bangladesh (NUB) to design a course on human trafficking that will be included in the curriculum of the Migration Law studies. ACT has already conducted lessons for one semester with the students of NUB and organized two seminars on human trafficking. 

Bangladesh Government to Build on its Co-management Capacities

August 16, 2011

USAID’s  Co-Management project (IPAC) facilitated the participation of five Government of Bangladesh (GoB) officials to attend a one-month regional training program conducted by the Wildlife Institute of India (WII) in Dehradun, India. The five GOB officials representing Forest Department, Department of Environment and Department of Fisheries joined counterparts from Pakistan and India to hone their skills and innovative approaches to sustainable co-management of natural resources. This certificate course included a blend of classroom lectures with a number of site visits, and provided ample opportunity for participants to share and develop their experiences.

Involving Religious leaders to raise awareness at the community on safe motherhood, infant care and family planning

August 16, 2011

Imams are the religious leaders at the community who deliver speech before and after prayers on different religious and social aspect to raise awareness. An orientation program at Bahubal Upazila (eastern Bangladesh) was conducted last week. A total of 100 Imams were oriented in four separate batches of orientation. Objective of Imam orientation was to inform them about USAID’s maternal and child care project activities, objectives and importance of Imam participation for raising awareness of community people on maternal, neonatal and family planning issues.

Bangladesh Police Commits to USAID’s Community-Based Policing Program

August 6, 2011

USAID’s Community-Based Policing (CBP) project conducted a series of 2-day workshops for its local partners designed to provide them with the skills needed to facilitate monthly municipal or ward-level Community Policing Forums created by the Bangladesh Police under a national mandate.  The CBP program is working in 518 of these ward-level forums, as well as at the district and divisional level all over the northwestern Bangladesh.  Participants had the opportunity to apply what they learned during “mock meetings” with police and citizens, as well as on site visits to local police stations and forums. USAID senior management met with senior police officials on July 25 to introduce the program and provide an overview. This meeting should cement buy-in and recognition of the CBP program among police hierarchy.  The Inspector General of Police has committed to distributing a letter acknowledging his support for the program to the District-level Inspector Generals in Rajshahi and Rangpur (regional cities) immediately after the presentation.

USAID’s Innovative Wooden Artificial Nests Help Local Waterfowl Species Take New Flight

August 5, 2011

USAID’s biodiversity co-management project, IPAC, with local communities and local government, has taken the steps to monitor the reproduction of local waterfowl species (Cotton Pygmy-Goose) signifying concerns regarding preserving biodiversity and increased awareness in the area. The project built 12 artificial wooden nests that were placed in strategic areas to promote safe waterfowl breeding environment. A leading national daily reports that, Cotton Pygmy-Goose, laid its eggs inside one of these wooden artificial nests last week.

National Seminar on Energy Sector Regulation

August 5, 2011

USAID Mission Director Richard Greene’s visit at Kumudini

August 5, 2011

Dhaka, 3 August 2011 - USAID Mission Director Richard Greene visited Kumudini Hospital at Mirzapur, Tangail, last week. Kumudini Hospital is one of the four USAID-supported Fistula Care Centers in Bangladesh. A total of 217 women have received fistula repairs from this hospital with a success rate of 76 %. USAID has supported Kumudini Hospital to provide fistula care services since 2005. With technical assistance from EngenderHealth, the hospital has established a twenty-bed fistula ward and has received essential equipment and training. So far seven doctors and twenty nurses have received training on wide range of subjects, including comprehensive fistula case management, postpartum hemorrhage, fistula counseling, pelvic floor exercises, and facilitative supervision.

The ‘Fistula Care’ project is funded by USAID, managed by EngenderHealth Bangladesh. The project is implemented through four private hospitals (LAMB hospital in Parbatipur, Dinajpur; Kumudini hospital in Mirzapur, Tangail; and Ad-Din hospitals in Dhaka and Jessore) with the aim to prevent and repair fistula and support the rehabilitation of fistula patients through skills development for income generation. The project also supports activities to reintegrate patients back into their family and community.

Richard Greene also visited different wards of Kumudini hospital, especially Fistula ward, to observe some operations, Emergency Obstetric Care training session, handicraft/vocational training center, Bharotesshari Homes School and different sections of Kumudini Welfare Trust.

USAID’s Governance Project Supports Regional Council Elections

August 5, 2011

USAID Trains Eggplant Farmers to Test Soil Samples Leading to Integration of Science and Indigenous Knowledge

August 4, 2011

USAID-supported poverty reduction project PRICE organized group meetings of small eggplant farmers in four villages located in the southwestern part of Bangladesh. More than 180 local farmers learned about the importance of soil testing to set appropriate doses of fertilizer and compost along with understanding about soil health. They also gained practical experience on soil collection techniques. This training has equipped farmers to combine their indigenous knowledge with scientific tools required in the present world to keep up with the changing climate. This was made possible due to PRICE efforts, and is expected to boost eggplant productivity creating greater prosperity among the farmers of Bangladesh.

USAID/B highlighted as one of LPA's top social media DOCs

August 3, 2011

U.S. Government Hosts Dialogue To Promote Legal Framework Ensuring Justice To Migrant Workers

July 18, 2011

DHAKA, JULY 18 -- Officials from the U.S. and Bangladesh governments, NGO representatives, law practitioners, and recruiting agencies met today to discuss "Legal Redress for Victims and Survivors in the Process of Migration - Framework  and Realities."  Part of a $3.4 million anti-trafficking project funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), the dialogue generated concrete suggestions to ensure justice for the victims of labor trafficking.

     USAID supports advocacy initiatives to promote policy changes that will improve support services for survivors of labor trafficking.  Advocacy campaigns and dialogues have identified obstacles victims face in receiving adequate compensation as well as recommendations for policy reform. The purpose of this workshop was to identify specific concerns raised by the trafficked labors and migrants who cannot lodge a legal complaint against the recruiting agencies. USAID will partner with the Government of Bangladesh to incorporate more authority and right into the new comprehensive law against human trafficking where the trafficked migrants can lodge report against the recruiting agencies, and claim for full compensation. Because of the legal loopholes, the recruiting agencies can now get by without compensating the trafficked migrants. The USAID sponsored workshop will recommend specific policy changes into the law so the trafficked migrants can seek help from the government to better monitor labor recruitment agencies. 

     USAID administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

USAID and GOB Jointly Launch The National Level Communication Campaign On Long Acting And Permanent Family Planning Methods

July 5, 2011

DHAKA , MAY 5 -- The United States Ambassador to Bangladesh, James F. Moriarty, and Bangladesh Minister of Health, Dr. A.F.M. Ruhal Haque, launched the National Level Communication Campaign on Long-Acting and Permanent Family Planning Methods at the Banghabandhu International Conference Centre in Dhaka today. The U.S. Government-funded Mayer Hashi Program, one of USAID's health projects implemented in collaboration with the Directorate General of Family Planning, has developed this campaign.

     The launching ceremony showcased the new national mass media campaign before national stakeholders and technical experts.  The campaign focuses on the promotion of various long-acting and permanent methods for family planning.  Through this campaign, Bangladesh's family planning program is expected to reach audiences like potential users, service providers, and community change agents and leaders.  For each of these audiences, specific strategies, messages and materials have been developed to ensure that appropriate and useful information is conveyed.

     Long-acting and permanent family planning methods are highly effective, safe and suitable for those clients who want to delay space or limit birth intervals. 

     The U.S. Government has supported the family planning program in Bangladesh for over four decades, demonstrating its continued commitment to the family planning program in Bangladesh.  USAID administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

U.S. Bangladesh Commence Operations To Prevent Nuclear Smuggling At Port Of Chittagong

July 5, 2011

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 5 - The National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) today announced the successful installation and start of operations of radiation detection equipment at the Port of Chittagong, Bangladesh, a significant milestone in cooperative efforts worldwide to prevent nuclear terrorism.

     The specialized equipment provided by NNSA scans shipping containers for the presence of potentially dangerous nuclear and other radioactive materials.  Bangladesh now has the capability to scan more than 80% of all import and export containers, a major accomplishment at one of the highest-volume ports in South Asia.

     "Our success in equipping the Port of Chittagong, one of the major shipping points in South Asia, highlights our shared commitment to keeping dangerous materials out of the hands of terrorists, smugglers and proliferators," said NNSA Deputy Administrator for Defense Nuclear Nonproliferation Anne Harrington. "This partnership with Bangladesh highlights the importance of working together as an international community to address the global threat of nuclear and radiological terrorism as we continue our commitment to implementing President Obama's nuclear security agenda."  

     Under a 2008 agreement between the U.S. and Bangladesh, NNSA's Second Line of Defense (SLD) Program has been working with the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Shipping, National Board of Revenue, Chittagong Port Authority, and Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission to install radiation detection equipment that will deter, detect, and interdict illicit shipments of nuclear and other radioactive materials that might move through the Port of Chittagong.  NNSA has now equipped 37 of its overall goal of 100 Megaports worldwide.

     The Megaports Initiative's work at the Port of Chittagong is part of NNSA's SLD Program, which works collaboratively with foreign governments at land border crossings, airports and seaports worldwide to install specialized radiation detection equipment and associated communications equipment. The SLD Program provides training to host government border guard officials and other personnel to detect smuggled nuclear and other radioactive materials.  SLD also has a strong sustainability program to ensure the continued effective use of the equipment.   NNSA has installed similar equipment at more than 350 sites and at 37 Megaports around the world.

     Established by Congress in 2000, NNSA is a semi-autonomous agency within the U.S. Department of Energy responsible for enhancing national security through the military application of nuclear science in the nation's national security enterprise. NNSA maintains and enhances the safety, security, reliability, and performance of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing; reduces the global danger from weapons of mass destruction; provides the U.S. Navy with safe and effective nuclear propulsion; and responds to nuclear and radiological emergencies in the U.S. and abroad.

Bangladesh To Receive $51.3 Million In Food Assistance From U.S. Government In FY2001

May 19, 2011

DHAKA, MAY 19 -- The U.S. Government through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) will be providing $51.3 million in food assistance to Bangladesh in fiscal year 2011.  The awards, which include transportation and freight costs, will be implemented under the Food for Progress and McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition programs. 

     In Bangladesh, Food for Progress (FFP) will provide benefits valued at $21.8 million to 424,800 people in partnership with the Small Enterprise Assistance Funds (SEAF) and Winrock International.  The McGovern-Dole award will provide benefits valued at $30 million to 350,000 children through the World Food Program (WFP).

     Announcing the awards, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said, "These two international food assistance programs support global food security and sustainable agriculture production in food-insecure nations, contributing significantly to the President's Feed the Future Initiative. But our efforts to support global food security are not just important to the many people around the world who do not have access to nutritious and safe food; they are also critically important to the sustainable economic growth of these nations, and the economic prosperity and national security of our own country."

     Food for Progress projects are chosen based on their agricultural focus, program impact, proposal quality, commodity management, the implementing organization's capability and experience, and program alignment with host government and U.S. government country strategy plans.

     McGovern-Dole participants either use or sell the donated U.S. commodities in recipient countries to help support education, child development, and food security in low-income, food deficit countries that are committed to universal education. For example, in Bangladesh, 350,000 children in more than 1,800 schools are being fed by the World Food Program with help from the McGovern-Dole Program.

     USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service administers both the Food for Progress and McGovern-Dole programs. More information can be found at: http://www.fas.usda.gov/food-aid.asp.

     USDA's food aid programs contribute to the goals of President Obama's global hunger and food security initiative, Feed the Future. Feed the Future is part of a multilateral effort launched at the L'Aquila World Summit on Food Security in 2009 to accelerate progress toward the Millennium Development Goal of halving the proportion of people living in extreme poverty and suffering from hunger by 2015. More information on Feed the Future can be found at: http://www.feedthefuture.gov.

U.S.-Funded Project Leads To Launch Of Public Finance Communications Office

May 11, 2011

DHAKA, MAY 11 -- U.S. Ambassador James F. Moriarty, along with Honorable President of the People's Republic of Bangladesh Md. Zillur Rahman, Bangladesh government officials, journalists from the print and electronic media, parliamentarians, diplomats, and civil society representatives, met today at the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) to launch the Communication and Media Cell in the CAG's Office.  Established to enable greater transparency and accountability in public financial management, the Media Cell will provide information to the public about the activities of the Auditor General and increase media and public awareness of the oversight of public financial management. 

     In his remarks, Ambassador Moriarty praised the launch of the Media Cell and noted, "Bangladeshi public servants are committed to the improvement of the policy-making and service delivery abilities of this nation. They are committed to testing and measuring their values, their ethics, and their actions as they serve the government and the public.  And it is our pleasure to witness one of the finest examples of Bangladesh's commitment to public service delivery and transparency with the opening of the Media Cell in the Comptroller and Auditor General's Office."

U.S. Government Salutes Bangladeshi Women for Contributions To Society

March 15, 2011

DHAKA, MARCH 15 -- In recognition of International Women's Day, USAID, the U.S. Government's premier development agency, joined with female political leaders, celebrities, academic experts, thought leaders, musicians, mothers, daughters and individuals from every walk of life to celebrate the economic, political and social contributions of women in Bangladesh. The two-day Gender and Development Fair, "Equal Access to Education, Training, and Science & Technology: Pathways to Decent Work for Women," was held at the Bangabandhu International Conference Center over two days, March 14-15.

    On March 14, U.S. Ambassador James F. Moriarty inaugurated the event by touring a book fair and attending the screening of a documentary. Over 95 booths showcased the offerings of publishers, NGOs, academic institutions, international organizations and development partners working to raise awareness of various gender issues and highlighting successful approaches in promoting gender equality. In his remarks to attendees, Ambassador Moriarty noted, "This is truly a celebration of the contributions women make in every aspect of life - at home, on the jobs and in their communities, as mothers, wives, sisters, and daughters and as learners, workers, citizens and leaders."

     On the second day, March 15, USAID Mission Director Denise Rollins hosted an interactive round-table with national print and electronic media to promote equal access of women to education, training, science and technology.  The two-hour session, "Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Women in Leadership Roles - How to Get There and Stay There," featured prominent panelists from government, academia, law, business, the media and civil society organizations who spoke of their own paths to success and engaged in an open and frank dialogue with 30-40 students from Dhaka University.

     The U.S. Embassy in Dhaka organized the first Gender and Development Book Fair in March, 2009.

     The U.S. Government, through USAID, administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

U.S. Government Supports Fiscal Decentralization, Local Governments Authority

March 9, 2011

DHAKA, MARCH 9 -- USAID, the U.S. Government's premier development agency, facilitated a national level advocacy meeting to hold dialogue on "Fiscal Decentralization of Local Government" in Dhaka today. The event brought together relevant government authorities and policy-makers to discuss specific steps to decentralize the national government's financial management and to provide greater financial authority and power to local governments. The goal is to permit local governments to better plan their resources and implement their budgets in partnership with community members.

    The U.S. Government, through USAID, is providing $3.8 million in funding to Rupantar, a Bangladesh-based NGO, to implement the "Improving Local Level Governance by Strengthening Union Parishad & Creating Citizens Awareness (ILLG)" project, which will run from August 2002 through March 2011. The project is working with 214 local governments in the southwest and northwest regions of Bangladesh. Today's dialogue was organized by Rupantar as part of the ILLG project.

     USAID/Bangladesh Mission Director Denise Rollins, Deputy Speaker of the Bangladesh National Parliament Col. (Retd) Shawkat Ali, State Minister of LGRD Zahangir Kabir Nanok, local elected officials, representatives of local government associations and NGOs, civil society members and members of the media attended the meeting and provided their opinions.

     Through USAID, the U.S. Government administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

USAID Launches New Agriculture Project Promising Higher Yield With Less Fertilizer

March 5, 2011

DHAKA, MARCH 05 -- James F. Moriarty, the United States Ambassador in Bangladesh, and Mrs. Matia Chowdhury, Minister of Agriculture, today jointly launched the $25 million Accelerating Agriculture Productivity Improvement (AAPI) project in Sherpur district.  The AAPI project promotes Urea Deep Placement technology that decreases the use of high-cost fertilizers while increasing crop yields.  The project will help two million rice and vegetable farmers across the nation improve their incomes while increasing food security.  In addition, about 1,800 private entrepreneur supply points will be established through AAPI to create access for farmers to Fertilizer Deep Placement (FDP) products.  As a result of this program, the Bangladesh government is projected to save $84 million over five years. 

            After the launching ceremony, Minister Chowdhury and Ambassador Moriarty distributed four fertilizer briquette machines at a 75% subsidized price to four potential entrepreneurs of Nalitabari Upazila, one of the 68 project Upazilas.  They also met with several local farmers and discussed the benefits of this new program.

            The AAPI project is funded by the United States Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and implemented in close collaboration with the Bangladesh Ministry of Agriculture and the Department of Agriculture Extension.

            Through USAID, the U.S. Government administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

United States and Bangladesh Launch Internet-Based Monitoring System to Ensure Availability Of Contraceptive Supplies

February 15, 2011

DHAKA, FEBRUARY 15 -- USAID Mission Director to Bangladesh Denise Rollins and Health Minister AHM Ruhal Haque today jointly introduced the Logistics Management Information System (LMIS) at a launch ceremony at the Radisson Hotel in Dhaka. This Internet-based tool will allow Bangladesh government officials to monitor the supply chain of government-owned contraceptives stocks nationwide and raise an alert if there is a possible stock shortage. This tool will also help determine the amount of required contraceptives for Bangladesh and help the government make evidence-based decisions to procure contraceptives for Bangladesh.

            The U.S. Government, through USAID, has been assisting the Government of Bangladesh to plan, implement, monitor and provide training to government staff to put this information system into operation. The project aims to ensure that contraceptives are available throughout the year at both government sources and on the private market. 

            Estimated at 160 million people, and projected to grow to 230-250 million by 2050, Bangladesh's large population has a significant impact on all development sectors in the country. Research indicates that the average desired fertility rate in Bangladesh is less than two children per family, which is below replacement level, but in reality average families have more than two children.  One reason for this is the lack of access to family planning services and products.

            The United States Government joins the Government of Bangladesh in its desire to provide quality family planning methods and comprehensive information to all Bangladeshis on a consistent basis. For over three decades the United States Government has provided assistance to the Government of Bangladesh to procure family planning commodities, educate the population on family planning, and enhance the efficiency of procurement processes.  In addition, the Government of Bangladesh has invested tens of millions of dollars of its own funds to purchase family planning commodities. Together, the United States and Bangladesh are working to ensure that these contraceptives reach the men and women who want to use them.

            USAID administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

Presentation Of The Directorate General Of Family Planning (DGFP) Internet-Based Logistics Information System And Internet-Based Procurement Tracker

February 12, 2011

Your Excellency, Minister, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Professor Dr. AFM Ruhal Haque;Honorable Secretary, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Mr. Humayun Kabir; Honorable Director General, Directorate General of Family Planning, Mr. Ganesh Sarker; Ladies and Gentlemen: As-Salamu Alaikum and Good Evening!

       It is a pleasure to gather with you tonight to launch the new Internet-based Logistics Information System and Procurement Tracker.  As we are all aware, Bangladesh's large population has a significant impact on all development sectors in the country.  With an estimated population of 160 million people, projected to grow to 230-250 million by 2050, Bangladesh will need more schools, more clinics, more roads, more energy, and more housing. This is a demand on resources that is simply not sustainable over the long term.  

       We know that the average desired fertility rate in Bangladesh is less than two children per family, which is below replacement level, but in reality average families have more than two children.  One reason for this is the lack of access to family planning services and products.  When a family does not consistently have the family planning products they need, unwanted pregnancies occur.

       The United States Government joins the Government of Bangladesh in its desire to provide quality family planning methods and comprehensive information to all Bangladeshis on a consistent basis.  For over three decades the United States Government has provided assistance to the Government of Bangladesh to procure family planning commodities, educate the population on family planning, and enhance the efficiency of procurement processes.  In addition, the Government of Bangladesh has invested tens of millions of dollars of its own funds to purchase family planning commodities.  Together, the United States and Bangladesh are working to ensure that these contraceptives reach the men and women who want to use them.     

       Tonight we will present to you the Internet-based Logistics Management System and the Internet-based Procurement Tracking System.  These tools are two examples of how USAID is joining hands with the Bangladesh government to make family planning products and services available wherever and whenever Bangladeshi families want to obtain them.  These are digital tools that allow anyone to instantly know current data on commodity availability.  For example, if the Directorate General of Family Planning (DGFP) wants to know how many doses of injectable contraceptives or how many packets of contraceptive pills are available in any government hospital or clinic, he simply can check through the Internet-based Logistics Management System.  With these systems, any manager from the Directorate General of Family Planning, you Mr. Secretary, or you Mr. Minister, from your office or home computer, can instantly know if the process to buy family planning products is moving on schedule or if there are any delays that can affect future availability.  You will also be able to know exactly in which office the delay is originating, and for how long the delay has been occurring.  It is all there, in a transparent way, so that you will know if the investments that the Government of Bangladesh makes in family planning are being well managed.  The added bonus is that all of this information can easily be accessed at any time over the Internet. 

       So, tonight, Mr. Minister, it gives me great pleasure to officially deliver to you the Web-based Logistics Management System and the Web-based Procurement Tracking System on behalf of the United States Government. 

       And now I would like to request a demonstration of these systems.  Thank you.       

Maternal Mortality Rate Survey Results To Be Released

February 10, 2011

DHAKA, FEBRUARY 10 -- On February 13, USAID Mission Director Denise Rollins and Health Minister A F M Ruhal Haque will release the preliminary findings of the 2010 Bangladesh Maternal Mortality and Health Care Survey (BMMS).  The event will be held at the Radisson Water Garden Hotel in Dhaka from 9:30 a.m. to 12:50 p.m.

            In 2001 the Bangladesh Maternal Mortality and Health Service Survey showed that 322 mothers died for every 100,000 live births, or 3.22 per cent, far short of the country's Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) target of 1.43 per cent. The 2010 results will show whether the maternal mortality rate has declined since 2001 and by how much. The survey, funded in part by the U.S. Government through USAID, will also provide information on causes of maternal death and changes in use of women's health services in Bangladesh.

            USAID administers programs in five key areas in Bangladesh: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided over $5.8 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

America Week Khulna Begins Monday (January 23, 2011)

January 23, 2011

DHAKA, JANUARY 23 - Continuing a tradition of outreach across Bangladesh, the U.S. Embassy is sponsoring "America Week" in Khulna from January 24-26.  America Week highlights the important ties between the people of the United States and Bangladesh by taking U.S. Embassy activities to the people outside the capital.  This will be the second time that Khulna hosts America Week.  Chittagong, Rajshahi, Barisal and Sylhet have hosted past America Weeks.

     This edition of America Week celebrates the theme of "partnership" and features presentations, outreach, and site visits showcasing U.S. Government-funded programs in Khulna.  Visitors will have opportunities to learn more about studying at a U.S. university, applying for a U.S. visa, or participating in a U.S. Government development project.

     Numerous special events are planned. Highlights include a skit performed by characters from the acclaimed children's show Sisimpur; a cricket match between local youth and the Khulna Police Force, with special guest appearances by national players Khaled Mahmud Shujan, Khaled Masud Pilot, Mehrab Hossain Opi, and Salma Khatun; and a live concert featuring the band GrooveTrap. There will also be film screenings and interactive theater performances.

     Following a tradition of past America Weeks, the public can visit more than 50 booths run by the U.S. Embassy, USAID and its development partners, and  U.S. companies.  The booths and most presentations will be at the Khulna Club.  Booths will be open from 11:30 am to 5 pm on January 24 and from 10 am to 5 pm on January 25-26.  Admission to all America Week events is free. 

USAID’S New Assistant Administrator for Asia Arrives in Dhaka

November 9, 2010

Nisha Desai Biswal, newly confirmed Assistant Administrator for Asia at the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), arrives in Dhaka tomorrow for a four-day visit.  During her stay in Bangladesh, her first visit to the country in her new capacity, Ms. Biswal will meet with Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and other Government of Bangladesh ministers, and will also visit selected USAID development projects.

Assistant Administrator Biswal is responsible for USAID’s development programs throughout Asia except Afghanistan and Pakistan, which includes programs in more than 20 countries, reaching more than half of the world’s population, and with a budget exceeding $1.17 billion in fiscal year 2010.  Prior to taking up her current position, Ms. Biswal served in various capacities, including work on policy advocacy and budget reforms, in the U.S. Congress and at USAID, the U.S. State Department, InterAction, and the American Red Cross – both at the Washington headquarters and overseas. 

The U.S. Government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor. USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. The U.S. Government has provided more than $5.5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh since 1971.

U.S. Government Delivers 92,000 Metric Tons of Wheat Under New Food Aid Program

October 5, 2010

The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has delivered 92,380 metric tons of wheat to Bangladesh as part of the U.S. Title II Food Aid Program.  The food arrived at the Chittagong Port between September 22 and 28.  This shipment is for the first year of the new Food Aid Program that will total $210 million over five years.  The program is designed to reduce hunger and improve nutrition in Bangladesh, targeting the most impoverished and malnourished communities. 

The food will be used to generate funds to support income opportunities, promote health, hygiene and nutrition, and empower women and girls. This initiative will also promote disaster management systems, such as an early warning system before a natural disaster; educate communities to adapt to climate change, including raising homes to prevent flooding; build infrastructure for communities, including roads, market places, and embankments; and enhance communities’ capacity to respond to natural disasters, such as floods and cyclones.  

USAID works with the Government of Bangladesh to reach approximately nine million extremely poor and malnourished people.  To accomplish this, organizations such as CARE, Save the Children and ACDI/VOCA will implement the programs in three different areas: (1) Through SHOURHARDO II, CARE will implement the program in Rajshahi, Dhaka, Sylhet and Chittagong Divisions; (2) Through Nobo Jibon, Save the Children will implement the program in the Barisal Division; and (3) Through PROSHAR, ACDI/VOCA will implement the program in the Khulna Division. 

These programs are an important part of USAID’s mission in Bangladesh.  USAID administers programs in five key areas: improving health and pre-primary education; creating income opportunities for rural poor; supporting good governance; enhancing food security; and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

U.S. Government-Funded “Sisimpur” Makes Earth-Shaking Launch into Season 6

October 2, 2010

Halum, Tuktuki, Ikri and Shiku, the beloved Muppets from the children’s show “Sisimpur,” will make an earth-shaking entrance into the sixth season when the village of Sisimpur is struck by an earthquake. The 2010-2011 season, focusing on improving children’s knowledge of the ecosystem while inspiring them to be more respectful and caring about the environment, will feature an episode where an earthquake hits Sisimpur.  The story will focus on the precautionary measures needed when there is an earthquake and how local communities work to tackle natural disasters.  The characters will learn the importance of paying attention to radio announcements and demonstrate how children and their families can better prepare themselves to face unexpected natural calamities.        

Another episode will teach children how to prevent environmental pollution and how various species can co-exist within a fragile ecosystem.  During this episode, audiences will see Halum, Tuktuki, Shiku and Ikri helping their amphibian friend restore a polluted pond.  As always, the new season will introduce new studio segments along with live action films.  Also this year, a group of selected rural adolescent directors will create live action films highlighting the local cultures of Srimongol, Chandpur and Durgapur.  The new season will also see the exciting introduction of various new puppet characters--- Banor (Monkey), Baang (Frog) and Pakkhi (Bird).     

Sisimpur, an original Bangladeshi adaptation of Sesame Street, first launched in April 2005. The U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has provided $14.3 million to produce this series of 30-minute television programs that provide greater access to informal education.   Using a combination of humor, drama, music and fantasy, Sisimpur helps to improve the literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills for an estimated nine million Bangladeshi children aged 3 to 6 years old.

U.S. Government Pledges $95 Million to Fight Hunger in Khulna and Barisal

August 3, 2010

Two U.S.-funded programs signed agreements with the Government of Bangladesh on August 3 as part of a newly expanded effort to reduce hunger and improve nutrition in Bangladesh. Nobo Jibon (New Life) and PROSHAR (Program for Strengthening Household Access to Resources) will receive approximately Tk. 6.555 Billion (US$ 95M) from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) over the next five years. Through these new initiatives, USAID will work to increase incomes of the poor and ultra poor, improve the health and nutrition of women and children, and strengthen households’ resiliency to natural disasters in Bangladesh’s two southern divisions.

The $95 million in funding includes both cash resources and a total of 229,742 metric tons of wheat, lentils, yellow split peas, and vegetable oil. PROSHAR will be implemented in the Khulna division by ACDI/VOCA, a U.S.-based NGO. Nobo Jibon will be implemented in the Barisal division by Save the Children, USA. Together, these programs aim to reach approximately 900,000 households.

The Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh, represented by the Disaster Management and Relief Division of the Ministry of Food and Disaster Management, is contributing over Tk. 324M (US$ 4.7 million) to support PROSHAR and Nobo Jibon. These funds will be used by ACDI/VOCA and Save the Children for technical assistance as well as health and disaster management training. Funds will also be used to complete community infrastructure projects and respond to disasters such as floods and cyclones in the Khulna and Barisal Divisions.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor.  USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters.  Since 1971, the U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh.

U.S. Government Continues to Assist Live Bird Markets to Prevent Avian Influenza

July 23, 2010

The STOP AI (Stamping Out Pandemic and Avian Influenza) Bangladesh project, funded by the United States Government through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will launch a  Cleaning and Disinfection (C&D) program on Tuesday, July 6 to improve the security of the live bird market at Sreepur Pauroshova in Sreepur Upazila of Gazipur District.            

USAID, through the STOP AI initiative, collaborated with the Sreepur Municipality, and the market committee to develop a market improvement plan to prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) to birds and people, including renovation of the water supply, addition of a bio-gas facility for proper waste disposal and a slaughter house. The live bird markets can be a major source of the avian influenza and can contribute to its spread in Bangladesh. STOP AI protects animals from bird flu and provides people access to safe food products and minimizes the risks of avian influenza from becoming a public health epidemic.            

USAID initially piloted Cleaning and Disinfection programs in two major live bird markets in Dhaka (Mohammadpur and Kaptan bazaar). The successful outcome of these activities led to an expanded, nationwide program in which 19 additional markets were upgraded. These markets are located in Konabari Upazilla in Gazipur, and Hakimpur and Parbatipur Upazillas in Dinajpur.  There has been a major positive public health impact from improving markets in these high-risk, high-density poultry areas.

Bangladesh on track to meet the Millennium Development Goal for TB

July 11, 2010

As part of USAID’s work with the Government of Bangladesh (GOB) to combat tuberculosis (TB), the GOB conducted a nationwide survey to track TB prevalence in the country. The government unveiled the results of the study, conducted from 2007-2009, at a national seminar in Dhaka on 7 July. The seminar was presided over jointly by USAID Acting Mission Director Dennis Sharma and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The survey indicates that only 79 out of 100,000 adults test positive for TB, significantly lower that previous survey results and the current estimates. The USAID-GOB TB program increased case detection rates, improved access to short-course treatment and, consequently, helped improve the cure rate, contributing to the dramatic reduction in TB throughout Bangladesh.

Bangladesh on track to meet the Millennium Development Goal for TB

July 10, 2010

As part of USAID’s work with the Government of Bangladesh (GOB) to combat tuberculosis (TB), the GOB conducted a nationwide survey to track TB prevalence in the country. The government unveiled the results of the study, conducted from 2007-2009, at a national seminar in Dhaka on 7 July. The seminar was presided over jointly by USAID Acting Mission Director Dennis Sharma and Bangladesh’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The survey indicates that only 79 out of 100,000 adults test positive for TB, significantly lower that previous survey results and the current estimates. The USAID-GOB TB program increased case detection rates, improved access to short-course treatment and, consequently, helped improve the cure rate, contributing to the dramatic reduction in TB throughout Bangladesh.

Bangladesh Named as U.S. Government’s Global Health Initiative plus Country

June 22, 2010

Dhaka, June 23 -- Bangladesh has been selected as one of the eight “Global Health Initiative Plus” countries. The Global Health Initiative (GHI) is a U.S. led global initiative. The United States Government is investing $63 billion over six years to help partner countries improve health outcomes through strengthened health systems - with a particular focus on improving the health of women, newborns and children by providing quality health services and combating infectious diseases. The other seven countries are Ethiopia, Guatemala, Kenya, Malawi, Mali, Nepal, and Rwanda. These countries will receive additional technical and management resources to quickly implement GHI’s approach, including programs and investments in HIV/AIDS prevention, malaria, tuberculosis, maternal and child health, nutrition, family planning and reproductive health.

As a GHI plus country, Bangladesh will receive the additional technical, management, and financial resources in the health sector. For Bangladesh, the focus of support will be to realign USG investments in health with the Government of Bangladesh’s (GOB) health sector program. This support will include: maternal and child health; family planning;  population; nutrition; HIV/AIDS; polio; tuberculosis;  infectious diseases; water, sanitation, and hygiene;  and cross cutting issues such as gender, monitoring, evaluation and surveillance and health systems strengthening at the Upazila level.

In Bangladesh, the U.S. Government, through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Center for Disease Control (CDC) and Department of Defense (DoD) will work with the  Government of Bangladesh and will assist NGOs and private sector to address critical health problems and provide support to achieve the national Millennium Development Goals. The initiative will deepen work at the community level including attention to community clinics and decentralization, support technical advisors in the ministry and promote innovations in health to improve the health of Bangladesh’s most vulnerable groups. 

In the past four years, the U.S. Government expenditure in the health sector in Bangladesh has more than doubled. In 2011, the total heath budget is projected to be $77 million and has nearly doubled since 2008 from $29 million. Over the past 30 years, USG support in the health sector has totaled over $700m and over $5.5 billion across other sectors.

Global Pulse 2010

April 29, 2010

Dhaka, March 29 -- The U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is sponsoring a three-day online“virtual” event called Global Pulse 2010, March 29-31.  Global Pulse 2010 will provide an opportunity to voice opinions, share ideas, and create innovative solutions to social issues facing the global community within the fields of science and technology, entrepreneurship, and human development.  Registration is FREE and participants can join from any computer with internet access.  To register, please visit the link: http://www.globalpulse2010.gov/.

The forum will give people with innovative ideas the chance to voice their opinion, learn from one another, and speak directly with those who have the desire and resources to take action.   Individual discussions will take place within forums on ten different topics, led by recognized leaders in the field.  Participants can participate in any of the following discussion areas: (1) Inspiring a New Generation, (2) Empowering Women and Girls, (3) Enabling the Essential Education, (4) Building Stronger Partnerships, (5) Exercising Political and Civil Rights, (6) Promoting Global Health, (7) Advancing Entrepreneurship, Trade & Economic Opportunity, (8) Fostering Science, Technology & Innovation, (9)Supporting a Sustainable Planet, and (10) Pursuing Grand Challenges.

U.S. Government, Bangladesh Government and the FAO Work Together to Prevent Avian Influenza at Poultry Markets

April 27, 2010

USAID Bangladesh Funds Training for Youth on Fresh Water Prawn Farming

April 26, 2010

U.S. Government Sponsors Regional Conference on ‘‘the Role of Religious and Community Leaders in Advancing Development in Asia”

March 18, 2010

Dhaka, March 18 -- Seventy religious and community leaders from fourteen countries across Asia will meet in Dhaka, March 21-24, for a regional conference on “The Role of Religious and Community Leaders in Advancing Development in Asia.”

This conference is sponsored by the United States Government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and co-hosted by The Asia Foundation. The conference aims to facilitate dialogue and exchange of experiences among religious and traditional leaders of multiple faiths, political actors, and development practitioners. State Minister of Religious Affairs Advocate Al-Haj Muhammad Shahjahan Mia, U.S. Ambassador James F. Moriarty and Special Assistant to President Obama and Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Mr. Joshua DuBois will inaugurate this key regional conference.

The conference is an important aspect of President Obama’s Global Engagement Initiative in which the United States has committed to work with Muslim-majority countries to advance democracy and development.           

Conference participants will share ideas on the critical roles that traditional leaders of society, including religious and community leaders, play in promoting good governance, gender equality, health and family planning, creating income opportunities, and in disaster preparation and response. This conference is also a continuation of the U.S. Government’s effort to engage religious and community leaders in Bangladesh through its “Leaders of Influence” program.  To date more than 15,000 leaders have received training through this program on development issues affecting their communities.             

Countries that will be represented at the conference include: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Tajikistan.

For more information please visit http://www.leadersofinfluence-asia.org/

USAID Bangladesh Sponsors Regional Conference on ‘‘the Role of Religious and Community Leaders in Advancing Development in Asia”

March 18, 2010

Dhaka, March 18 -- Seventy religious and community leaders from fourteen countries across Asia will meet in Dhaka, March 21-24, for a regional conference on “The Role of Religious and Community Leaders in Advancing Development in Asia.”

This conference is sponsored by the United States Government through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and co-hosted by The Asia Foundation. The conference aims to facilitate dialogue and exchange of experiences among religious and traditional leaders of multiple faiths, political actors, and development practitioners. State Minister of Religious Affairs Advocate Al-Haj Muhammad Shahjahan Mia, U.S. Ambassador James F. Moriarty and Special Assistant to President Obama and Executive Director of the White House Office of Faith-Based and Neighborhood Partnerships Mr. Joshua DuBois will inaugurate this key regional conference.

The conference is an important aspect of President Obama’s Global Engagement Initiative in which the United States has committed to work with Muslim-majority countries to advance democracy and development.           

Conference participants will share ideas on the critical roles that traditional leaders of society, including religious and community leaders, play in promoting good governance, gender equality, health and family planning, creating income opportunities, and in disaster preparation and response. This conference is also a continuation of the U.S. Government’s effort to engage religious and community leaders in Bangladesh through its “Leaders of Influence” program.  To date more than 15,000 leaders have received training through this program on development issues affecting their communities.             

Countries that will be represented at the conference include: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Indonesia, India, Malaysia, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Maldives, Thailand, Timor-Leste, and Tajikistan.

For more information please visit http://www.leadersofinfluence-asia.org/

AMBASSADOR MORIARTY INAUGURATES CYCLONE RECONSTRUCTION PROGRAM IN BARISAL

March 2, 2010

U.S. GOVERNMENT-FUNDED CYCLONE SHELTER CONSTRUCTION PROJECT CONTINUES

January 21, 2010

U.S. GOVERNMENT-FUNDED FOOD SECURITY WORKSHOP BEGINS TOMORROW

January 19, 2010

THOUSANDS VISIT AMERICA WEEK IN RAJSHAHI

December 10, 2009

RAJSHAHI, DECEMBER 10 -- America Week, sponsored by the U.S. Embassy, concluded today in Rajshahi. During this three-day event, Ambassador James F. Moriarty and other Embassy officials met with thousands of people in Rajshahi to highlight the important ties between the people of the United States and Bangladesh. The U.S. Embassy has previously hosted America Week in each divisional capital in Bangladesh. The last America Week in Rajshahi was held in 2004. This year’s America Week theme was "Community," highlighting how excellent relations between the U.S. and Bangladesh benefit communities in the two countries as well as the global community. Events featured presentations, outreach programs, and site visits showcasing U.S. Government-funded programs in Rajshahi. More than 10,000 visitors attended the events and learned how to study at a U.S. university, apply for a U.S. visa, or participate in a U.S. Government-funded development project. The Embassy also sponsored screenings of critically-acclaimed American films.

The Ambassador hosted several events for political and business leaders, cultural representatives, educators and other Rajshahi residents. At the opening dinner, the Ambassador talked about the growing interdependence between the people of the U.S. and the people of Bangladesh. He stated, "Every day we see evidence of our interdependence. It is apparent in business, in transnational security, in environmental issues, and in many other spheres. The U.S. is a key partner in spurring the development of Bangladesh. Our open trading system helps budding entrepreneurs turn great ideas into profitable reality. Our top-notch universities help train the future leaders of Bangladesh. Our development assistance--$5.5 billion since 1971—helps Bangladeshis develop new skills, get the healthcare they need, feed their families, and live in better-governed communities." (Please see the U.S. Embassy website at http://dhaka.usembassy.gov as well as the U.S. Embassy Facebook page at www.facebook.com/bangladesh.usembassy for the full text of the Ambassador’s America Week remarks and photos from America Week events.)

works with high-risk populations to prevent HIV and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI). The Modhumita program reaches 2 million people each year across Bangladesh. This year’s America Week coincided with the International Anti-corruption Day, celebrated worldwide on December 9 each year. Ambassador Moriarty and Anti Corruption Commission Chairman Mr. Ghulam Rahman spoke at an event organized by the USG-funded good governance program, Promoting Governance, Accountability, Transparency and Integrity (PROGATI). PROGATI, an $18 million program, focuses on bringing government and citizens together to promote transparency and accountability by strengthening public finance management and oversight mechanisms. Ambassador Moriarty visited several USG-supported education projects. He met with a group of religious leaders participating in the Leaders of Influence (LOI) Program at the Rajshahi Imam Training Academy. The Ambassador and religious leaders discussed the role of religious leaders in promoting good governance, advancing human rights and maintaining Bangladesh’s tradition of religious tolerance and harmony. More than 20,000 religious leaders across Bangladesh have participated in LOI activities. The Ambassador also inaugurated a new USG-funded English training program for 80 Imams and madrassa teachers in Rajshahi. This program provides cutting-edge English language training to madrassa educators. This program is part of the USG effort to provide 21st-century skills to students from all educational backgrounds in Bangladesh. At Rajshahi University, Ambassador Moriarty met with students and spoke about U.S. higher education and the value of cross-cultural education. Representatives from the U.S. Embassy’s Consular Section and the Student Advising Center also discussed admission procedures for U.S. institutions of higher learning and answered questions about the application process for a U.S. student visa. Ambassador Moriarty observed an anti-trafficking performance by youth performers of Actions for Combating Trafficking-in-Persons (ACT) in Rajshahi. ACT, a $3.5 million USG- supported program, creates public awareness in rural and semi-urban areas on human trafficking and provides support services to trafficking survivors throughout Bangladesh. National cricket stars joined the Ambassador for a cricket exhibition sponsored by the local police and the U.S. Embassy. The event helped build bonds between law enforcement officials and average citizens. The Ambassador gave cricket equipment donated by the U.S. Government to 15 local schools, watched a cricket exhibition featuring local police and former National Cricket Team members, and swung a bat himself.

AMERICA WEEK RAJSHAHI BEGINS TODAY

December 6, 2009

DHAKA, DECEMBER 6 – Continuing a tradition of outreach across Bangladesh, the U.S.

Embassy is sponsoring “America Week” in Rajshahi from December 8-10. America Week

(http://dhaka.usembassy.gov).

AMERICA WEEK RETURNING TO RAJSHAHI

November 18, 2009

DHAKA, NOVEMBER 18 – Continuing a tradition of outreach across Bangladesh, the U.S. Embassy

SENIOR USAID OFFICIAL FOR NEW U.S. GOVERNMENT FOOD

November 12, 2009

DHAKA, NOVEMBER 12 -- Dr. Josette Lewis, Director of the U.S. Agency for International Development’s Office of Agriculture and a senior official for the new U.S. Government Food Security Initiative departed Dhaka today. Dr. Lewis visited Dhaka to discuss President Obama’s new food security initiative. Her visit marks the beginning of active planning and consultations between the Bangladesh and U.S. governments that will lead to a new food security program in Bangladesh. Bangladesh will lead the development of this strategy.

Dr. Lewis met with senior Bangladesh Government officials, including the Ministers for Health, Agriculture and Food and Disaster Management. She also met with development partners, members of civil society and think tanks. During these consultations she described the new U.S. food security initiative and obtained feedback from the Bangladesh Government and other partners on this country’s food security priorities. These consultations will enable her to develop an overall understanding of the policies and practices affecting agricultural productivity, nutrition, food aid and sustainable agriculture in Bangladesh.

USAID has provided $5.5 billion in development assistance to Bangladesh since 1971. In addition to providing immediate food assistance, USAID has provided significant contributions to Bangladesh to encourage higher education in agriculture and develop agricultural research facilities. U.S. Government assistance helped establish the wheat research center, the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, and the Bangladesh Agriculture Research council.

U.S. AND BANGLADESH GOVERNMENTS LAUNCH PROJECT TO REDUCE MATERNAL MORTALITY

November 2, 2009

COX’S BAZAR, NOVEMBER 2 -- Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

Misoprostol—a medication that controls bleeding after delivery. This medication is especially

important for home deliveries or where there are no trained birth attendants. The pilot program will be

million “Mayer Hashi” Program. The best practices learned through this pilot project will then be

USAID FUNDED CARBON FINANCING WORKSHOP OPENS IN DHAKA

October 28, 2009

DHAKA, OCTOBER 28 -- A two-day USAID funded workshop on “Global Climate Change and Carbon Financing: Opportunities for Bangladesh” opened today in Dhaka. U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh James F. Moriarty and Bangladesh State Minister of Environment and Forest Dr. Hasan Mahmud inaugurated this important workshop. Participants will explore opportunities for carbon financing in Bangladesh as means to reduce emissions, increase adaptation and improve land use while alleviating poverty and conserving biodiversity. This workshop is organized by USAID’s Integrated Protected Area Co-management (IPAC) project and the United States Forest Service in partnership with the Bangladesh Government, Jahangirnagar University and Independent University of Bangladesh as part of a capacity building effort for protected area co-management and conservation.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor. USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. The U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh since 1971. In 2009, U.S. assistance will total about $180 million.

U.S. GOVERNMENT SUPPORTS HIV/AIDS PREVENTION WORKSHOP

October 7, 2009

DHAKA, OCTOBER 7 -- A two-day USAID funded workshop on HIV/AIDS prevention opened today in Dhaka. Bangladesh Minister for Health and Family Welfare Dr. AFM Ruhal Hoque and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Mission Director Denise Rollins inaugurated this important workshop. The workshop, organized by Family Health International, is bringing together health experts, government officials, NGOs and donor organizations who work with injecting drug users, one group most at-risk for HIV/AIDS.

The workshop provides an opportunity for participants to share their experiences and discuss best practices and lessons learned from Bangladesh's national HIV/AIDS program. The U.S. Government, through USAID, has contributed more than $20 million since 2005 to reduce and prevent HIV/AIDS in Bangladesh through the "Bangladesh AIDS Project” (BAP). A new HIV/AIDS project, "Modhumita," will begin in November 2009 and will focus on working with the most-at-risk groups including commercial sex workers and injecting drug users.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor. USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. The U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh since 1971. In 2009, USAID’s planned assistance will total about $172 million.

USAID LAUNCHES NEW PROGRAM TO SUPPORT PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

October 7, 2009

DHAKA, OCTOBER 7 -- The  United States Agency for International Development (USAID), has announced the launch of a new program to promote the rights of people with disabilities in Bangladesh. Handicap International will implement a two-year, $300,000 program entitled “Organizational Capacity Building to Advocate for the People with Disabilities in Bangladesh.” Handicap International will work with disabled peoples’ organizations in each division in Bangladesh to enhance their capacity for rights-based advocacy. The program will strengthen networks for protecting and advancing the rights of thousands of people with disabilities. It will provide strategic planning, financial management, advocacy, and networking training to organizations that protect and advance the rights of people with disabilities. The program will partner with the Government of Bangladesh to highlight this important issue and improve government policies and action plans in this area

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor. USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. The U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh since 1971. In 2009, USAID’s planned assistance will total about $172 million.

U.S. AND BANGLADESH SPONSOR REGIONAL CONFERENCE ON COUNTERING VIOLENT EXTREMISM

September 27, 2009

DHAKA, SEPTEMBER 27 -- The United States and Bangladesh governments are jointly sponsoring a three-day conference on countering violent extremism. The seminar brings together experts from the U.S., Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal and the Maldives to discuss how to prevent and respond to attacks by violent extremist organizations. Participants include government officials, members of law enforcement organizations and members of the military. This conference underscores the importance of security cooperation among Bangladesh, the United States and countries throughout South Asia.

USAID INTRODUCES “MODHUMITA” TO STEM HIV/AIDS

September 17, 2009

DHAKA, SEPTEMBER 17 -- The U.S Embassy announced today a new USAID sponsored $13 million health initiative called “Modhumita” (Sweet friend) to stem the transmission of HIV/AIDS. The program will help prevent HIV by providing HIV-prevention services to two million at-risk people in Bangladesh.

Modhumita will target 30% of the Bangladesh’s at-risk population including injecting drug users, male, female and transgender sex workers and their clients, and HIV positive people through a network of 50 health centers. The centers will offer voluntary counseling and HIV testing and provide treatment and preventive services for sexually transmitted infections. In addition to providing medical testing and treatment, the centers will also rehabilitate injecting drug users, offer job skills training to recovering drug users, and deliver HIV awareness messages. Modhumita will also provide care and support programs for people living with HIV/AIDS.

The U.S. Government, through USAID, is working to improve the lives of the people of Bangladesh, especially the very poor. USAID administers programs in Bangladesh in five broad areas: improving health and pre-primary education, creating income opportunities for rural poor, supporting good governance, enhancing food security, and strengthening disaster preparedness and providing emergency assistance following natural disasters. The U.S. Government has provided more than $5 billion in assistance to Bangladesh since 1971. In 2009, USAID’s planned assistance will total about $172 million, including specific assistance for people living in the Cyclone Sidr-affected regions.

AMBASSADOR MORIARTY EMPHASIZES THE ROLE OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT IN DISASTER MANAGEMENT

August 13, 2009

THE UNITED STATES AND GERMANY JOIN TOGETHER ON CLIMATE CHANGE EFFORTS IN CHUNATI

August 12, 2009

AMBASSADOR MORIARTY LAUNCHES ETHICS AND STANDARDS IN JOURNALISM TRAINING PROGRAM AT JATRI

August 10, 2009

AMBASSADOR MORIARTY HIGHLIGHTS COMMUNITY-BASED DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES IN THREE-DAY VISIT TO SYLHET, HABIGANJ, AND SREEMONGOL

August 5, 2009

AMBASSADOR MORIARTY ANNOUNCES NEW SUPPORT FOR MATERNAL AND NEWBORN HEALTH SERVICES IN SYLHET

August 4, 2009

USAID FUNDED “MAYER HASHI” PROGRAM TO IMPROVE FAMILY PLANNING SERVICES

July 23, 2009

USAID SPONSORED INTERNATIONAL CLEAN ENERGY WORKSHOP BEGINS IN DHAKA

June 10, 2009

USAID PROVIDES $295,000 FOR DISASTER RELIEF ASSISTANCE FOLLOWING CYCLONIC STORM AILA

May 31, 2009

GOVERNMENT OF BANGLADESH LAUNCHES U.S.-FUNDED NATIONAL FOOD POLICY PLAN OF ACTION

May 28, 2009

U.S. AMBASSADOR AND INFORMATION MINISTER MEET TUKTUKI AT SISIMPUR

May 27, 2009

USAID LAUNCHES NEW INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM CENTER AT BRAC

May 7, 2009

USAID FUNDED AVIAN AND HUMAN PANDEMIC INFLUENZA MEDIA WORKSHOP CONCLUDES

April 30, 2009

USAID SUNDARBANS MANAGEMENT DISCUSSION IN KHULNA

April 18, 2009

USAID SPONSORS BOOK FAIR IN HONOR OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY

March 5, 2009

USAID Launches Improved Livelihood for Sidr Affected Rice Farmers (ILSAFARM) project

February 17, 2009

Effective December 16, USAID Bangladesh has awarded a US$4.71 million grant to fund ILSAFARM project to improve food security and alleviate poverty among cyclone affected small scale rice producers. The project will support activities in the eight Sidr Affected rice producing districts of Bangladesh. USAID will support activities that improve the production of rice through using the Urea Deep placement technology that makes the rice production much more cost effective compared to the conventional technology. Overall, the Sidr affected farmers are expected to increase rice production by about 74,000 metric tonne by the end of the project in 2010.

USAID-Funded Rural Energy project Receives Future Energy Prize

February 17, 2009

Grameen Shakti was awarded the first “Zayed Future Energy Prize 2009” for reaching rural people successfully with renewable energy technologies. The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces HH General Sheikh Muhammad Bin Zayed Al Nahyan presented the award at the World Future Energy Summit on January 19. The Prize is US$ 1.5 million, a Certificate and a Gold Medal. USAID supports Grameen Shakti through a $2 million activity to focus on the economic empowerment of rural women by training them to install and maintain photovoltaic Solar Home Systems (SHS), Improved Cooking Stoves (ICS) that use 50% less fuel wood and Biogas plants that generate gas from human and animal waste and is used for cooking.  Grameen Shakti has installed more than 200,000 Solar Home Systems, more than 6,000 biogas plants and over 25,000 improved cooking stoves.   With the prize, they plan to install 1 million Solar Home Systems by 2010 and construct 500,000 biogas plants and 10 million Improved Stoves by 2012.  They have also set up 33 Grameen Technology Centers all over Bangladesh to train rural women as Solar Technicians/Entrepreneurs.

USAID/Bangladesh’s Rural Energy Project Beneficiary Receives French Microcredit Award

February 17, 2009

Ambia, a female solar technician and entrepreneur has received a micro-entrepreneur award from Planet Finance, a French micro-credit organization. She was trained by the USAID-funded renewable Energy program and participated in the training of women technicians on solar renewable technology. Ambia set up her own business at home to assemble the solar home systems generating energy from the sunlight. She is one of the more than 1,000 rural women technicians trained in the 20 Grameen Technology Centers (GTC) established in different parts of Bangladesh under the USAID project. The training program has now been expanded to the cyclone Sidr-affected areas to train an additional 1,700 women technicians.  USAID’s funding has increased the installation of solar systems from 2,000 per month to more than 6,000 per month.

America Week 2009 held in Barisal

February 17, 2009

The sixth America week in Bangladesh took place in Barisal from January 26-28. Continuing a tradition of outreach across Bangladesh, USAID, the US Embassy and the DoD sponsored America Week 2009. This edition of America Week featured presentations, outreach and site visits showcasing USG-funded programs throughout the Barisal division. The main venues played host to 40 informational booths, and on-going presentations from partner organizations, American businesses, as well as US Embassy offices.  Simultaneously, Ambassador and Mrs. Moriarty and USAID Mission Director Denise Rollins visited over a dozen USAID program sites. Activities surrounding America Week allowed the US Mission in Bangladesh to share their goals and story with over 10,000 people from Barisal. Attendees included young and school aged children, families, university students, as well as religious and secular community leaders.  With so many exciting projects and programs happening in the area, it was truly an inspirational week of connecting partners, implementers, beneficiaries, and the general public. 

USAID launches “REAL” to assist Sidr affected population

February 16, 2009

USAID Mission Director Meets Dhaka University Students on international Youth Day

August 19, 2008

A group of fourteen students along with the Chairman of the Department of Development Studies of Dhaka University met with the USAID Mission Director, Denise Rollins, to observe the ‘International Youth Day’ on August 12. The Mission Director gave a presentation on USAID’s activities in Bangladesh to the students and discussed about the roles of US Government in developing Bangladesh.

The Mission Environment Officer was present in the event to address this year’s theme, ‘Youth and Climate Change: Time for Action’, and spoke about USAID’s initiatives to preserve the wetlands of Bangladesh through its programs. The students also had the opportunity to ask different questions on USAID and its programs to the Mission Director.

$100,000 grant made to Hellen Keller to Ensure Nutritional Support to Mothers and Children in the Sidr Affected Regions

August 19, 2008

USAID Bangladesh has recently awarded Essential Nutrition Actions project to Helen Keller International as an emergency response activity for nutritional rehabilitation work in the Cyclone Sidr-impacted coastal areas of Barishal division.

The project uses an integrated approach for improving maternal and child health and nutrition and will target 5,600 households with pregnant women and lactating mothers and children less than two years of age. 

Barishal division is one of the most food insecure areas of Bangladesh and has one of the highest rates of malnutrition in the country. The situation further declined after the devastating cyclone on November 15, 2007. Recent surveillance shows that magnitude of malnutrition and wasting, or low weight for height, among children increased after the cyclone, raising the need for intervention to improve nutritional status of women of reproductive age and children below two years of age.

The project will primarily focus on improving breastfeeding and complementary feeding practices of children under two years of age, nutrition care for sick and malnourished children, prevention of Vitamin A deficiency, promotion of micronutrients, and nutrition for women.

Essential Nutrition Actions is a community-based project that will rely on behavior change communication and community mobilization to achieve its objectives. Trained field level staff of the project will conduct targeted women’s group meetings, individual counseling visits for selected households, establish linkages with health facilities and health providers, and conduct advocacy meetings with local level community leaders.

USAID LAUNCHES “PROGATI” TO HELP FIGHT CORRUPTION

June 15, 2008

The United States Government, acting through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), recently launched PROGATI, a four year project designed to control corruption by strengthening public oversight of government funds. PROGATI, an acronym for “Promoting Governance, Accountability, Transparency and Integrity” will work together with government agencies, civil society organizations, NGOs and media outlets to promote improved governance of public resources.

PROGATI will introduce participatory activities in four thematic areas. First, it will work with the parliament to assist them with management of national budgets and monitoring of government expenses. PROGATI activities will also help monitor the usage of public resources to establish a more transparent and accountable relationship with the public. To increase citizen understanding and participation in the national budget process, PROGATI will collaborate with civil society organizations that play an important role in promoting reform.  The project will team up with media outlets and journalists to help raise professional standards and build a culture of investigative journalism that encourages reporting on corruption issues.

USAID works closely with NGOs, local government and major political parties in Bangladesh to build on the country’s capacity for participatory democracy, strengthen its institutions of good governance, and support its culture of tolerance.  USAID activities support political party reform and credible elections, promote transparent and accountable government, support effective and participatory local governance, combat trafficking in persons, and encourage civic engagement by key leaders of influence.

The United States Government has a long history of extending assistance to Bangladesh to recover from disasters, to try to escape poverty, and to engage in democratic reforms. Through USAID, the USG’s assistance to Bangladesh includes support for the return to democracy through free, fair and credible elections and more transparent and accountable governance; support for a better educated, healthier and more productive population; and assistance to increase economic opportunities through equitable economic growth, improved food security and disaster mitigation.

USAID Provides US$100,000 to Combat Food Crisis in the Chittagong Hill Tracts

June 13, 2008

The United States Government has provided US $100,000 as an emergency response to the impending food crisis in the Chittagong Hill Tracts caused by a severe rat infestation. This phenomenon occurs every 40-50 years as a result of gregarious bamboo flowering.  As the bamboo flowers and fruits, the population of rats in the affected areas grows exponentially due to the sudden overabundance of food.  Once the rats have eaten all the bamboo fruits, they turn to crops and stored grain, rapidly devouring everything in their path.  In some areas, rats devastated entire fields in less than 48 hours, causing up to 90% crop damage and jeopardizing the food supply for more than 25,000 families in the hill districts.  In response to this crisis, USAID will fund efforts by CARE in partnership with UNDP to provide indigenous seeds to affected farmers so they can plant new crops before the onset of the monsoon.

The fourth ORS production line: another Success for USAID

June 12, 2008

The new Oral Rehydration Saline (ORSaline) production line at Social Marketing Company factory was switched on by the USAID mission director Denise Rollins on Monday, April 28th. This new USAID funded fourth line, in the SMC’s factory in Bhaluka, Mymensingh, will add about 50 million sachets annually to the current full production capacity of about 170 million sachets of ORS. Considering the increasing demand for ORS and its impact on reducing diarrhea-related child death, the Mission has allowed the use of program income to procure and install the fourth line of production for the ORS factory. This forth line will increase ORS production by 50 million sachets per year for a total of 200 million sachets. Also USAID supported the construction of the new SMC Central Warehouse. For a long time, SMC was using a rented residential building for warehousing purposes, which did not meet modern warehousing standards. Safety and maintaining quality of the products were the major concern in the rented warehouse. This newly constructed warehouse not only ensures modern warehouse standards but also helps SMC to achieve its sustainability goal by saving $ 36,000 yearly in rent. 

USAID Introduces 'Monimix' to fight against childhood Iron Deficiency Anaemia

June 12, 2008

The USAID and SMC funded micronutrient program was launched through introduction of 'MoniMix' - a micronutrient powder which can be easily mixed at home to fortify foods to address childhood Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA). The micronutrient program was launched to address IDA in Bangladesh where about 64 percent of children aged 6 to 23 months and 42 percent of children aged 24 to 59 months suffer from IDA. The program aims to improve nutritional status of under-five children, particularly of those with childhood IDA. The program intends to increase knowledge and awareness among parents and health service providers about the importance of micronutrient containing food and adequate dietary intake, and promote exclusive breastfeeding and proper complementary feeding of nutrition rich foods.

USAID comes forward to help rehabilitate fish ponds damaged by Cyclone SIDR

June 12, 2008

USAID recently awarded a grant to WorldFish center to support the Cyclone Affected Aquaculture Rehabilitation Project (CAARP). CAARP will help rehabilitate fish ponds damaged by the Cyclone Sidr. The project plans to provide a major boost to livelihoods for some of the poorest families who have been affected the worst by Sidr and have aquaculture as their primary income.

The project will provide farmer with packets containing lime and fertilizer to rehabilitate the damaged fish ponds. It is expected that more than thirty two thousand farmers living in five districts across the south and south-western areas of Bangladesh will be rehabilitated and nearly thirty thousand households will regain livelihoods through the successful completion of the project.

USAID to Provide 90,000 Metric Tons of Food Aid to Bangladesh in 2008

June 12, 2008

USAID will provide food aid worth of $78 million to Bangladesh this year. US Ambassador Moriarty was present at the Chittagong Port on May 25 to observe the arrival of 45,700 metric tons of food aid coming from the United States Government as a part of the development efforts. Part of this food aid will be used to assist Cyclone SIDR affected populations in Barguna and Bagerhat districts. The rest will be distributed as part of USAID’s regular food aid programs in flood prone and seasonally food insecure areas of the country. The USAID partners, CARE and Save the Children have already received several consignments of food aid which includes wheat, vegetable oil and yellow peas.

USAID supported food aid programs target the poorest of the poor who live in the most food insecure and vulnerable areas of the country. USAID food aid assistance is designed to bridge the gap between disaster response and development by supporting planning and preparedness activities. USAID has helped build 245 multi-purpose disaster shelters, developed about 4,000 community-based disaster mitigation structures, and established a stockpile of emergency disaster kits for 30,000 families. USAID provided training to local disaster committees, volunteers and school teachers in 271 of the country’s 277 disaster-prone sub-districts. The program focuses on protection of assets by raising homesteads, and by building raised access roads to markets and schools.  The program develops alternate livelihood options for the ultra-poor through activities such as poultry raising, dairy farming, and vegetable gardening.  The program also provides a safety net for the poor through food and cash for work projects.  In all, program activities are helping 4 million people in more than 3,000 villages.  USAID’s five year Food Security and Disaster Management Program will address disaster risk mitigation and adaptation to climate change threats.

Additional USAID Relief Supplies Arrive For Cyclone Victims

December 3, 2007

USAID provided an initial $100,000 in emergency funds immediately after the cyclone

November 23, 2007

In response to the disaster caused by Cyclone Sidr, USAID awarded emergency grants totaling $100,000 to CARE/Bangladesh and Save the Children.  The grant to Save the Children in the amount of $70,000 will provide food and cooking utensils to approximately 5,000 affected households in the Patuakhali and Barguna Districts of the Barisal Division.  The grant to CARE/Bangladesh in the amount of $30,000 will provide rice, pulse, oil, salt and other essential food items to 1500 families in Moralgonj and Saronkhola upazilas of the Bagerhat District.  CARE will engage its existing partner NGOs currently operating in Bagerhat District for this response.  A portion of the funds will also be used for transport and distribution costs to ensure that these vital supplies reach their intended beneficiaries as soon as possible. .

United States Provides a total of $2.1 million in emergency funds

November 23, 2007

In response to a request for international assistance, the United States has provided a total of $2.1 million in emergency funds to assist the relief efforts to date. The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) will receive $1 million from USAID for water and sanitation programs and to provide shelter materials to those in need. 

An additional $1 million will be directed to humanitarian organizations currently working in the affected area and will assist in meeting the immediate needs of the Bangladeshi people.USAID has deployed a five-person disaster assessment team to assist with relief and recovery efforts in conjunction with the USAID Mission and U.S. Embassy.The team is working alongside local authorities to conduct field assessments that will identify additional needs and areas where we might be of assistance.

In addition, USAID is airlifting relief commodities including 300 rolls of plastic sheeting, 5,000 blankets, 2,500 family hygiene kits, and 2,500 water containers.  The relief commodities, which arrived in Dhaka on November 20 will benefit 15,000 people in need USAID’s partners Save the Children and CARE have some non-emergency Title II food resources in Bangladesh.  USAID is currently loading a non-emergency food shipment destined for Bangladesh.

A U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) medical team was in Bangladesh prior to the cyclone, and that team is now assisting in relief efforts.  DOD is also deploying an 18-member Humanitarian Assistance Survey Team (HAST) to assist as well. The U.S. Navy ship U.S.S. Kearsarge is scheduled to arrive in Bangladesh on November 23 (Fri), while the U.S.S. Essex is scheduled to arrive on November 26 (Mon).

The United States extend its deepest sympathies to the government and people of Bangladesh in the face of this major natural disaster and stands ready to further assist in the relief effort based on needs identified in the coming days.

Administrator Fore Visits Bangladesh: Assures US assistance

November 23, 2007

U.S. Director of Foreign Assistance and Administrator of the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Henrietta H. Fore was in Bangladesh on Wednesday, November 20 for a one-day visit.  During her visit, she observed first hand the devastation caused by cyclone Sidr and met with the Chief Advisor of the Caretaker Government of Bangladesh Dr. Fakhruddin Ahmed to discuss how the United States can continue to assist Bangladesh in this time of need.  She also met representatives of international and bilateral donor organizations and learnt about their relief programs and how best to coordinate these collective efforts.  Ms. Fore conveyed her and President Bush’s deepest condolences as well as those of American people to the people of Bangladesh. She sympathized with those who have lost their family and friends. Administrator Fore flew over many of the hardest hit areas of Bangladesh and observed the cyclone devastated areas.