October 3, 2023

 

Standard Chartered and CNRS collaborate for sustainable aquaculture in Bangladesh

 

Standard Chartered Bangladesh (StanChart) has partnered with the Centre for Natural Resource Studies (CNRS) to promote sustainable, equitable, and climate-resilient aquaculture practices in Bangladesh, Daily Observer reported.

 

StanChart's chief executive officer, Naser Ezaz Bijoy, and CNRS's executive director, M Mokhlesur Rahman, recently signed the agreement, signifying their commitment to the joint initiative.

 

Under this collaborative effort, the two organisations aim to enhance the availability and accessibility of high-quality fish spawn, specifically Generation 3 (G3) Rohu, for 2,000 aquaculture farmers residing along the southern coast of Bangladesh.

 

Rohu, the most abundantly cultured carp species in Bangladesh, includes the genetically improved high-yield strain known as G3 Rohu, which holds significant economic and cultural importance.

 

The project has three primary objectives, to establish a robust spawn distribution network to facilitate efficient distribution of G3 Rohu fingerlings to aquaculture farmers, to orovide training opportunities for aquaculture farmers to enhance their capacity for G3 Rohu production, and to strengthen linkages throughout the aquaculture value chain by connecting producers with market information, support services, and retailers.

 

Additionally, the initiative will collaborate with research institutions and other organizations to ensure the widespread availability of genetically improved fish strains and climate-smart technologies.

 

As part of the project, 30 tonnes of G3 Rohu fingerlings will be distributed to selected beneficiaries, enabling 2,000 farmers to produce approximately 600 tonnes of harvestable G3 Rohu annually in two south-western divisions.

 

This initiative aligns with StanChart's commitment to improving nutrition and food security, fostering job and value creation, and providing end-to-end value chain support to local stakeholders.

 

Naser Ezaz Bijoy said it is important to support the sustainability, resilience, and equity of aquaculture systems in the face of climate risks in Bangladesh. The genetically improved G3 Rohu strain is expected to benefit both farmers and consumers, contributing to food and nutrition security.

 

M Mokhlesur Rahman expressed gratitude to Standard Chartered Bangladesh for investing in technologies that support aquaculture farmers, particularly those vulnerable to climate-induced threats. This collaboration aims to address malnutrition, reduce child stunting, and enhance economic returns while contributing to the nation's food and nutritional security.

 

-      Daily Observer