The spirit of collaboration and multi-stakeholder partnership shone brightly during the Bi-Monthly All Partners Coordination Meeting of Bangladesh Preparedness Partnership (BPP), held on 02 October 2024 in Dhaka. This pivotal meeting brought together key stakeholders from government, the private sector, NGOs, and academia, fostering collaboration and commitment to discuss the progress, challenges, and future strategies for disaster preparedness and response in Bangladesh. The BPP platform is led by the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief (MoDMR), with technical guidance from ADPC and funding support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Bi-Monthly Forum to Strengthen Disaster Preparedness and Response

BPP has established a mechanism to share progress, future plans, and lessons learned by different sectors every two months. The meeting hosted by the BPP academic sector was attended by 30 high-level representatives from partner organizations, reflecting the growing importance of this platform in strengthening disaster preparedness and response efforts. The Honorable Secretary of the Ministry of Disaster Management and Relief, Mr. Kamrul Hasan, ndc served as the chief guest at the event. In his remarks, Mr. Hasan emphasized the critical role of multi-stakeholder collaboration in ensuring a resilient Bangladesh, especially coordinated efforts driven by initiatives like the BPP, which continue to enhance the nation's disaster resilience.Honorable Secretary Mr. Kamrul Hasan, ndc, addressing at the All Partners BPP Coordination Meeting.

Progress and Future Plans: A Snapshot

During the meeting, partner representatives shared progress and future initiatives. The Institute of Disaster Management and Vulnerable Studies at the Dhaka University and BRAC University’s Department of Disaster Management presented findings from the Baseline Study on Bangladesh's disaster management systems. They also outlined plans for International Day for Disaster Reduction activities and the piloting of the Research Capacity Index Tool in the three BPP districts.

Academia from the BracU Department of Disaster Management capture a moment together during the insightful meeting

FBCCI, the private sector partner, updated attendees on the establishment of Safety Cells aimed at ensuring business continuity during disasters. NAHAB, representing the LNGO sector shared valuable insights and initiatives, while MoDMR highlighted key interventions on activation of the District Disaster Management Fund and an assessment of facilities for women in shelter during disasters. ADPC, noted the essential role of technical support in fortifying the network of stakeholders involved in disaster resilience. Additional Secretary of MoDMR, Mr. Hasan Sarwar, who serves as the chair of the BPP, presided over the session.

Mr. Hasan Sarwar, Additional Secretary of MoDMR and Chair of BPP, presenting the action points from the last meeting

As Bangladesh battles the challenges posed by climate change and natural hazards, initiatives like the BPP will remain critical in ensuring that the country’s disaster preparedness and response systems are robust, inclusive, and capable of protecting the most vulnerable. Together, all partners in the BPP are helping pave the way towards a more resilient Bangladesh.

Participants engaging in the discussions during the meeting.