Prof Muhammad Yunus Calls for Dedicated Social Business Fund to Support Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs in Bangladesh

Strategic Insights -

Professor Muhammad Yunus, a chief adviser, has urged the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) to establish a dedicated social business fund to support young agricultural entrepreneurs, women, farmers, and food processors in Bangladesh. The proposal was made during a bilateral meeting with IFAD President Alvaro Lario on the sidelines of the World Food Forum in Rome. Prof Yunus emphasized that the fund would not only promote entrepreneurship but also address critical social challenges, including healthcare for the poor.

Key Takeaways:

  • Prof Yunus proposed establishing a dedicated social business fund to support young agricultural entrepreneurs, women, farmers, and food processors in Bangladesh.
  • The fund aims to promote entrepreneurship and address social challenges, including healthcare for the poor.
  • Prof Yunus highlighted the need for inclusive growth across agriculture and fisheries, and emphasized the importance of technology transfer and funding for deep-sea fishing.
  • Farida Akhter, adviser for Fisheries and Livestock, requested IFAD's support to expand dairy production nationwide.
  • Prof Yunus noted that most Bangladeshi fishermen operate in shallow waters due to limited investment and technological capacity.
  • Since its engagement in Bangladesh began in 1978, IFAD has partnered on 37 projects totaling $4.26 billion, with $1.13 billion directly financed by the organization.

Statistics:

  • $4.26 billion: Total financing from IFAD for 37 projects in Bangladesh since 1978.
  • $1.13 billion: Direct financing from IFAD for Bangladesh projects.
  • $412 million: Current value of six ongoing IFAD projects in Bangladesh.
  • 37: Number of IFAD projects in Bangladesh since 1978.
  • 6: Number of ongoing IFAD projects in Bangladesh.
  • $4.26 billion/$1.13 billion/$412 million,%: [These statistics were not directly mentioned in the source; further reference to the source is required for accurate calculation.]

Sources:

  • International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
  • Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
  • Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder
  • Prof Muhammad Yunus
  • Alvaro Lario, IFAD President
  • Farida Akhter, adviser for Fisheries and Livestock
  • Deputy Press Secretary Abul Kalam Azad Majumder