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MoU signing between USAID Ecosystems/Protibesh Activity and PRAN-RFL Group
The USAID Ecosystems Protibesh project and PRAN-RFL Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) formalizing a joint effort to protect Bangladesh’s forests, wetlands, and wildlife in key areas across the country, and promote more sustainable economic opportunities for people living in and around these areas. The USAID Protibesh project, implemented by Chemonics International, and PRAN-RFL Group will collaborate to promote conservation on PRAN-RFL product packaging, promote responsible tourism in key biodiversity areas, and create jobs for people living in areas near forests and wetlands to reduce their reliance on natural resources from those areas. USAID Mission Director Reed Aeschliman, PRAN-RFL Group’s Chairman and CEO Ahsan Khan Chowdhury, and chief of party of the USAID Protibesh project Dr. Felix Gaschick formalized the MoU at a signing ceremony in Dhaka.
“We are excited to work with PRAN-RFL to protect the beauty of Bangladesh and promote sustainable livelihood opportunities for many more people, while showcasing how public and private entities can work together for positive change,” said USAID Mission Director Reed
Aeschliman. Mr. Ahsan Khan Chowdhury emphasized PRAN-RFL's commitment to sustainable development by providing safe jobs to thousands of people, while limiting environmental impacts. He appreciates the partnership with USAID to jointly contribute to conserving Bangladesh’s
biodiversity. USAID’s Protibesh project brings together leading environmental agencies, including the Bangladesh Forest Department, Department of Environment and the Department of Fisheries as well as communities from in and around key biodiversity areas to co-manage these ecosystems. PRAN-RFL Group, known for its dedication to environmental responsibility, brings crucial support to this endeavor. Through environment projects such as Protibesh, USAID is spearheading partnerships with the private sector to create positive environmental impacts that are nature-positive and supportive of local community development. This MoU marks a crucial step towards achieving shared goals of biodiversity conservation,
environmental governance, and promoting economic opportunities for communities living in and around Bangladesh's KBAs. By combining expertise and resources, the USAIDfunded Protibesh project and PRAN-RFL Group are well-positioned to make significant strides in safeguarding Bangladesh's natural conservation areas for the future.
For More Information
About the USAID Ecosystems/Protibesh Activity: The USAID Ecosystems/Protibesh project (Protibesh) is dedicated to enhancing biodiversity conservation and sustainable development in Bangladesh. Through collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, Protibesh aims to mitigate threats to biodiversity, promote sustainable practices, and create market-based incentives for communities to engage in conservation. Protibesh is implemented jointly by co- management organizations with representation from local communities and Government of Bangladesh ministries and departments such as the Bangladesh Forest Department and Department of Environment under Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change; Department of Fisheries under Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock; and Ministry of Land.
About PRAN-RFL Group: PRAN-RFL Group is a renowned Bangladeshi multinational conglomerate with a strong commitment to corporate social responsibility. With a diverse portfolio spanning multiple sectors, including agriculture, food, and plastics, PRAN-RFL Group is actively engaged in initiatives aimed at environmental conservation and community development.
