Dhaka:Speakers at a learning event in Dhaka have called for a comprehensive, long-term program to support Bangladesh's Manta fisherfolk community. They emphasized the need for the government and development partners to collaborate with community members to enhance access to education, healthcare, financial services, and public support, thereby advancing the community's sustainable development.
According to United News of Bangladesh, many Manta families live on traditional wooden boats along rivers in southern Bangladesh. These families face increasing vulnerability due to river erosion, natural disasters, and environmental pollution, which threaten their livelihoods and cultural traditions. The lack of a permanent land address also presents challenges in obtaining National Identity cards, registering births, enrolling children in school, and accessing government social safety-net programs.
The event, 'Solving the Last-Mile Access Challenge Together Lessons from the MantaConnect Project,' was organized by YouthNet Global with support from The Asia Foundation at the Greesho Ballroom of Six Seasons Hotel. MantaConnect, implemented by YouthNet Global, JAAGO Foundation Trust, and DocTime, uses technology-enabled approaches to improve access to essential services for the Manta community.
Community members expressed concerns over discrimination in accessing services and declining fish stocks due to large-scale trawling. They highlighted struggles during the government-imposed 22-day fishing ban, which leaves some families out of rice allocation programs. Jasim Sarder, a Manta leader from Laharhat in Barishal, appealed for fair access to identification and ration cards and thanked those who helped secure land for a community graveyard.
Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, reported that the MantaConnect project facilitated birth registration for 200 children, trained 200 community members, and engaged 30 local youth volunteers. Financial literacy training reached 150 people, 60 percent of whom were women.
Iftekharul Karim of JAAGO Foundation Trust noted a 98 percent attendance rate with no dropouts in the project's educational activities. Tanvir Rashed of DocTime highlighted the need for further support in medicine assistance, affordable diagnostic tests, and regular follow-ups.
Kashfia Zaman from The Asia Foundation outlined the project's work in various areas, including remote education and telemedicine. Despite eagerness to learn, community members still require foundational skills.
A panel discussion addressed the need for a census, alternative livelihoods, and stronger private sector involvement. Ethical documentation and privacy protection were emphasized, along with issues like menstrual health, child marriage prevention, and cultural preservation.
Officials, including Ahmadul Haque, Additional Secretary at the Ministry of Expatriates' Welfare and Overseas Employment, stressed the importance of listening to community needs and preserving Manta culture. Farida Sultana, Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Barishal Sadar, committed to coordinating efforts for a permanent school for Manta children.
Finally, Newaz Hossain Chowdhury from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare highlighted the need for family planning, early warning systems, and safe drinking water. Faridul Islam, former Secretary to the Government of Bangladesh, emphasized connecting community members with government skills training programs while preserving their cultural heritage.