Bangladesh
In Bangladesh, NICHE focuses on three sectors: water and food security, sexual and reproductive health rights (SRHR) and good governance.
Water and food security
Bangladesh and the Netherlands are two delta countries that go back a long way in terms of collaboration in the field of water management. They have a very similar approach to water, representing both opportunity and threat.
Dutch development cooperation in Bangladesh has always supported the water sector because of its vital importance for the development of the rural poor and because of Dutch water management expertise.
Within the water sector NICHE will address the following issues:
- Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM)
- Land use management
- Climate change
- Water governance
- Scenario Development
An effective water management is also essential for sustainable food production. Bangladesh’s population has increased to an estimated 160 million people. It has become self sufficient in rice production, nevertheless food insecurity and undernourishment remain at high levels for a large part of the Bangladesh population. NICHE aims to strengthen research and education in the integrated areas of fish, water and crops, in order to enhance food security in Bangladesh.
Sexual and reproductive health rights
Dutch Development cooperation supports the importance of SRHR as an integral part of the health system. Although Bangladesh has made good progress in regard to maternal and child health, maternal mortality remains high and MDG 4 and 5 will probably not be reached. The fertility rate has declined substantially since the 1960s but, again, remains high at 2.3 (2009). NICHE aims to strengthen and professionalise SRHR training and education in Bangladesh.
Good governance
Dutch development cooperation aims to help Bangladesh improve transparency and strengthen accountability. The Netherlands is investing in a series of macro reforms, undertaken by the government.These reforms are supported by an alliance of development partners. Efforts are also being made to boost citizen engagement and create effective means to hold the state to account.
NICHE will address the following issues:
- Supporting the civil service sector to become more modern, effective, accountable and responsive;
- Empowering the public by improving access to information and promoting freedom of information.
More information
Download the web version of the Programme Outline for Bangladesh(74.8 kB)