Khulna:The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has distributed computers, sewing machines, and food carts to beneficiaries of the "Livelihood Support for Urban Poor Communities in Bangladesh" project. The event was held under the supervision of Khulna City Corporation (KCC) at Selfie Park in the city's 7 no. Ghat area.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Stephen Rodrigues, the UNDP-Bangladesh Resident Representative, distributed the livelihood-support items during the event. KCC Chief Executive Officer Razib Ahmed attended as a special guest.
Rodrigues highlighted his visits to different upazilas in the southern region, where he observed the challenges faced by local communities. He noted that residents are dealing with climate change-induced waterlogging, shortages of drinking water, inadequate sanitation, and lack of employment opportunities.
The distribution of items was supported technically by the UNDP and financially backed by the Global Development Fund (GDF) and China International Development Cooperation Agency (CIDCA). The initiative aims to increase income, create self-employment opportunities, and improve living standards for poor families.
A total of 10 computer sets, 10 sewing machines, and 10 food carts were distributed to beneficiaries from 19 Community Development Committees (CDCs) across 17 wards of Khulna city.
The event featured speeches from several officials, including KCC Chief Planning Officer Abir Ul Jabbar, UNDP Dhaka Senior Programme Specialist Tanvir Mahmud, and Strategic Communications and Outreach Specialist Kirtijai Pahari. Additional remarks were made by International Technical Advisor and Manager Yugesh Pradhanang, Project Analyst SM Abdullah Al Masum, CDC Cluster Leader Rokeya Khalifa, and beneficiary Saleha Begum.