Government Unfolds Country Action Plan for Clean Cookstoves
Age old cooking practices in the country cause severe health hazards for women and their families who breathe in the dangerous smoke, as well as have devastating impacts on the environment. To bring about a much needed change in this existing scenario and to build on the foundation of several successful programs currently underway, Government of Bangladesh is set to kick off its ambitious but achievable action plan for providing clean cookstoves for at least 30 million people by 2030.
Initiated by the Power Division, Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources, Government of Bangladesh, a launching program of ‘Country Action Plan for Clean Cookstoves’ for Bangladesh was held this morning (7th November 2013) at Mukti Hall of Bidyut Bhaban at 11.00 am.
Dr Tawfiq-e-Elahi Chowdhury BB, Adviser to the Honorable Prime Minister, Government of Bangladesh attended the program as the Chief Guest. Putting emphasis on the importance of research in the relevant mission, in his speech he said, “Bangladesh would become a focus country for action not only because of the great need for access to improved cookstoves and cleaner fuels among the population, but also because of the government’s strong commitment to addressing this issue.” He then officially unveiled the Country Action Plan of the Government.
Secretary, Power Division, Mr Monowarul Islam, Ndc, and Ms Corinne Hart, Program Manager, Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves were also present on the occasion as the Special Guests.
Highlighting on the different features of the cleancook stoves campaign, Ms Corinne Hart, Program Manager of Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves said, “It is clear that a market for affordable, accessible, clean and efficient cooking solutions at scale is ready to be unleashed in Bangladesh, and the Alliance looks forward to continuing its close work with the national government, NGOs, and private enterprises to enable that market and save and improve the lives and environment of millions of Bangladeshis in the process.”
Director General, Power Cell of Power Division Mr Mohammad Hossain gave the welcome address while the launching ceremony was chaired by Mr Tapos Kumar Roy, Additional Secretary, Power Division.
To provide a better idea on what clean cookstoves are and how they work serving diverse utilities, different types of clean cookstoves were put on display at the ceremony.
It might be mentioned that, clean cookstoves can save lives, improve livelihoods, empower women and protect the environment for communities around the world. Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves (GACC), SNV and GIZ are working closely with the Government to achieve the above mentioned vision along with other Development Partners.
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