Standard Chartered Bangladesh is set to contribute BDT 29 million to a collaborative agriculture sustainability project launched with BASA Foundation, to train 800 honey farmers in the intricacies of honey production, processing, and the maintenance of hygiene parameters, according to a statement by SCB.
The statement said the collaboration between the two organizations aims to uplift local honey producers and create opportunities for entrepreneurs involved in selling and marketing honey-related products. The investment in apiculture, with a specific emphasis on increasing the local bee population, underscores the bank’s commitment to safeguarding the nation’s agriculture sector. Bees play a vital role in the agricultural cycle, making understanding and protecting pollinators crucial for supporting healthy ecosystems and sustainable agriculture.
Besides, the project will also provide individuals with beekeeping boxes, comb foundation sheet machines, honey extractors, honey processing machines, and food grade containers for storage and preservation. Branding and marketing support will also be extended to all participants.
Naser Ezaz Bijoy, Chief Executive Officer of Standard Chartered Bangladesh, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative, stating, “Apiculture investment not only fosters the growth of honeybee populations but also cultivates a flourishing impact on our nation’s agriculture sector by enhancing crop pollination, biodiversity, and overall agricultural productivity. We are also excited to uplift 800 beekeepers and apiculture entrepreneurs and provide them with new opportunities to innovate and improve their livelihoods. Standard Chartered is proud to partner with BASA Foundation to promote sustainable practices that safeguard our food systems while simultaneously contributing to broader goals of environmental conservation and ecological harmony.”
AKM Shirajul Islam, Executive Director of BASA Foundation, emphasized the foundation’s long-standing work with beekeepers and associated entrepreneurs in the apiculture business cycle. He highlighted the tremendous potential of apiculture activities in maintaining ecosystems, increasing agricultural production, addressing nutritional deficiencies, and strengthening the human immune system. He expressed confidence that the collaboration between Standard Chartered Bangladesh and BASA Foundation would lead to a new level, allowing both entities to contribute more to marginalized and vulnerable communities through this partnership.