The successful completion and Lesson Learning Event of the “Smart Farming, Healthy Food Bangladesh” project was marked with celebration and reflection this week. The initiative, supported by the Government of the Netherlands and led by Solidaridad Bangladesh in collaboration with East-West Seed Ltd. and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), has significantly improved the livelihoods of thousands of smallholder farmers across the country.
Over the course of the project, 25,000 smallholder farmers in Barisal and Chattogram benefited directly from access to climate-smart agricultural practices. Notably, 65% of the participants were women, highlighting a strong commitment to gender inclusion in agriculture. As a result of the initiative, farmers experienced yield increases of up to 70%, leading to substantial improvements in income and food security.
The project served as a model of effective international cooperation, demonstrating how partnerships between countries like the Netherlands and Bangladesh can strengthen key sectors such as agriculture and seed production. The outcomes also point to exciting new opportunities for export diversification and sustainable agricultural growth.
Speaking at the event, representatives from Solidaridad, East-West Seed, DAE, and the Dutch Embassy emphasized the importance of continued collaboration and innovation in addressing the challenges of climate change, food security, and rural livelihoods.
This milestone underscores the power of smart farming and inclusive development in building a healthier, more resilient future for Bangladesh’s agricultural sector.