Dhaka, Mar 10 (V7N) –The Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) signed an agreement on Monday to launch the Sustainable Solid Waste Management project in Cox’s Bazar.
The signing ceremony took place at the UNDP office in Dhaka, with Takahashi Naoki, chargé d’affaires ad interim of Japan to Bangladesh, and Stefan Liller, resident representative of UNDP Bangladesh, signing the agreement on behalf of their respective organizations.
This initiative aims to enhance waste management systems, improve health and hygiene, and create economic opportunities for both Rohingya refugees and host communities.
Under this agreement, Japan will provide $1.5 million to support urgent solid waste management (SWM) needs in Cox’s Bazar, benefiting approximately 160,000 Rohingya refugees and 60,000 members of the host communities.
Takahashi expressed hope that this support from the Government of Japan would improve the living conditions of both Rohingya refugees and host communities.
“I’m hopeful that this comprehensive solid waste management plan will help improve the lives of both Rohingya refugees and host communities,” he said, adding that this project will enhance community awareness, build knowledge and skills, and create income-generating opportunities.
These efforts will contribute to healthier, more profitable, gender-responsive, climate-resilient, and environmentally friendly communities.
Japan will continue working toward sustainable solutions in collaboration with international organizations such as UNDP, Takahashi added.
Stefan Liller highlighted the impact of the partnership, emphasizing that sustainable waste management is crucial for both human well-being and environmental protection.
“This partnership between UNDP and Japan will not only address immediate waste management challenges but also promote long-term, climate-resilient solutions that benefit both Rohingya refugees and host communities. Through innovative interventions and community-driven approaches, we aim to create cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable living conditions in Cox’s Bazar district,” Liller said.
Since the beginning of the emergency in August 2017, Japan has been a steadfast supporter of the Rohingya refugee response in Bangladesh, contributing over $240 million to UNDP, other UN agencies, and NGOs in Bangladesh, including through this new funding, UNDP noted.
END/MSS/AJ
Comment: