Dhaka: The Japanese government has committed $3.2 million to the International Organization for Migration (IOM) to support a comprehensive flood response and recovery plan in Bangladesh. This initiative targets the displaced populations in the flood-stricken districts of Noakhali, Laxmipur, and Feni.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the exchange of notes for this aid was formalized by SAIDA Shinichi, the Ambassador of Japan to Bangladesh, and Lance Bonneau, the Chief of Mission of IOM Bangladesh. As per a press release from the Embassy of Japan, the project aims to assist approximately 500,000 displaced individuals. The plan includes the repair and renovation of evacuation shelters, the creation of livelihood opportunities, and the strengthening of community resilience and capacity to manage disasters and displacement.
Ambassador SAIDA emphasized the anticipated positive impact of Japan’s support on the living conditions of displaced individuals affected by Cyclone Remal and a series of floods. He highlighted the importance of the plan in protecting populations, enhancing service delivery for those temporarily displaced, and promoting durable solutions for those in extended displacement. Japan remains committed to pursuing sustainable solutions in collaboration with international organizations like IOM.
Lance Bonneau of IOM Bangladesh reiterated the organization’s commitment to aiding the most affected communities in the targeted districts. The partnership aims to structurally reinforce evacuation shelters, improve the capacity of shelter committee members for effective evacuation responses, restore livelihoods, and enhance community resilience. Bonneau emphasized the goal of ensuring that the affected populations, particularly the displaced, receive the necessary assistance to rebuild their lives.
Since last September, Japan has provided significant assistance to Bangladesh’s flood-affected areas. This includes $1 million through UNHCR and UNICEF and $2 million in emergency humanitarian aid through the Japan Platform. Additionally, the Japanese Commerce and Industry Association in Dhaka, along with the Japanese Association in Dhaka, donated Taka 200,000 to the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society to further support flood-affected individuals and families.