Finally the project is approved!

After having a series of meetings with the Ministry for Disaster Management and Relief, and the NGO Affairs Bureau, CARE Bangladesh has finally received the approval and clearance for the implementation of the HIF project in Cox’s Bazar. Both staff, beneficiaries and other key stakeholders are happy to hear this news finally. Many lessons have been learned along the way to get this much delayed approval.

Now the CARE team is working to revise the project activities and budget in line with the remaining period of the project, as the donor has kindly allowed us until the end of the year to complete with a no cost extension. A coordination meeting with partners is planned to look at how to implement effectively within the remaining time and ToR’s will also be reexamined to clarify roles and responsibilities

Aside from these activities, the project team has completed the draft preliminary survey report at field level and the field staff are communicating with stakeholders with an update on recent developments of the project status. At field level, the project team is also revisiting the beneficiary list, stakeholders and ensuring the necessary endorsement from the relevant authorities. A meeting also organised with the Boat Owners Association (BOA) leaders in order to update them and replan the activities as necessary.

Project overview:

The project addresses the need for sufficient lead time on warnings of rough sea events through satellite-based weather signals. The digital tracking of fishing vessels also allows for more efficient and precise rescue missions in the event of capsizing and helps to protect the lives and livelihoods of fishermen who are vulnerable to frequent and severe weather events at sea. Community capacity in early warning and DRR is being strengthened through training and adoption of this system, thereby promoting a proactive rather than reactive approach to disaster.