Mennonite Central Committee Canada (MCCC) and Mennonite Central Committee Bangladesh (MCCB) (through partners Society for UDDOG (SF- UDDOG), World Mission Prayer League (LAMB) and Samakal Samaj Unnayan Sangstha (SSUS)), are undertaking an agriculture and livelihoods project in Dinajpur and Rangpur Districts of Bangladesh.
80% of people in these areas are dependent on agriculture and related industries for employment. Many are landless and either lease land for farming or work as day labourers. However, increased mechanization of farming has been reducing the demand for their services, even as commercial farming is displacing small producers. At the same time, drought and water table depletion has made agriculture and livestock rearing less productive.
This project aims to improve food security and the socio-economic status through a holistic approach that addresses dietary diversity, agricultural sustainability, climate change adaptation, gender equality and economic empowerment. It includes activities like training in climate-adaptive & integrated homestead farming, setting up demonstrations, technical skills for the youths, income-generating activities, forming self-help groups, health & nutrition care for pregnant mothers, and creating linkage for gender equity and peace building.
The project will work with 2,920 households comprising 13,140 people.