PKSF launches ‘GREEN’ project to scale up climate-resilient initiatives

The Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) launched the Growth for Climate Resilient and Environmental Entrepreneurship and Nutrition (GREEN) Project, aimed at accelerating sustainable economic growth by strengthening climate resilience, promoting safe and nutritious food systems, and fostering environmentally sustainable entrepreneurship.

The inauguration ceremony, held at PKSF Bhaban-1 in Dhaka, was chaired by Md Fazlul Kader, Managing Director of PKSF. 

Delivering the welcome address, Dr. Akond Mohammad Rafiqul Islam, Deputy Managing Director of PKSF, highlighted the rationale behind the GREEN Project and its strategic significance. Md Habibur Rahman, Deputy General Manager and Project Coordinator, presented an overview of the project. 

PKSF Deputy Managing Directors AQM Golam Mawla, Md. Mashiar Rahman, and Md Hasan Khaled also shared insights into PKSF's development initiatives and future priorities, according to BSS report. 

According to the project presentation, the GREEN Project will be implemented from 2026 to 2031 with a total investment of US$ 211.7 million. Of this, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) will provide US$ 70 million, while the remaining financing will be contributed by PKSF and its Partner Organisations. 

The joint investment is expected to make a significant contribution to expanding climate-resilient agriculture, green enterprises and improved nutrition across Bangladesh, said a press release.

Addressing the inauguration, Md Fazlul Kader underscored the need to move beyond the conventional microfinance model towards growth-oriented financing.

"Through the GREEN Project, PKSF will work to transform the microenterprise sector into a driver of inclusive economic growth.

The project will prioritize digital financing, agro ecological farming, agriculture-based microenterprises, local agro-processing and value addition, safe and nutritious food systems, renewable energy�"particularly solar power�"and the promotion of a circular economy." He added.

Under the project, more than 258,000 families across Bangladesh's haor, coastal, Barind and char regions will directly benefit.