PRABRIDDHI signs partnership contract with MAB to promote Local Economic Development through establishment of a virtual platform

The virtual platform will improve advocacy, peer exchange and knowledge-sharing on LED practices among mayors, councilors, and municipal administrations. With technical support from PRABRIDDHI, MAB plans to develop its digital presence for increased outreach and wider engagement. This collaboration will develop MAB’s capacity to promote LED across the country. Through the launch of the virtual platform, this agreement will also contribute to Government of Bangladesh’s strategy of "Smart Bangladesh" under the "Vision 2041” and foster more inclusive local economic growth.

Dewan Kamal Ahmed, conveyed the situation, stating that municipalities throughout the nation find themselves in a phase of significant growth given amid rapid urbanization and expanding economic activities. Despite of which, there exists a noticeable gap in the availability of interactive platforms for the dissemination of information and the exchange of knowledge related to LED technology. 

He opined that the timely inception of a virtual platform for sharing LED experiences is a crucial and pertinent initiative. This platform shall not only facilitate the smooth sharing of knowledge and past experiences among different towns and cities but also to boost cooperation in moving forward with LED projects.

Furthermore, Mr. Dewan Kamal Ahmed expressed his optimism regarding this partnership's potential to augment MAB's digital presence significantly. It is seen as a strategic move that will position MAB at the forefront of the digital era, as they embark on a journey towards a more sophisticated digital landscape.

Markus Ehmann, the team leader of PRABRIDDHI, explained how the virtual platform is going to serve as an information center for municipalities across the country. The information and the practices shared on this platform will set examples and encourage other municipalities to also initiate LED projects in their own areas. This, in turn, will make these organisations stronger, make it easier for them to share responsibilities, and enhance economic growth at the local level. 

Co-implemented by Local Government Division (LGD) and Swisscontact, the PRABRIDDHI project is currently being implemented in six municipalities. By 2024, the project will be expanded to two new municipalities.