A vibrant nutrition awareness campaign was held in Kalaroa upazila of Satkhira district on October 23, engaging women and young farmers from 12 unions under the theme “Food and Nutrition: Building a Healthy Future for All.”

Around 300 participants attended the event, which aimed to strengthen community-level awareness and actions on nutrition.

As part of the programme, an interactive quiz session was organized, allowing women and youth participants to test their knowledge and learn new insights about healthy diets and nutrition.

The campaign was jointly organized by the Global Alliance for Improved Nutrition (GAIN) and the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) under the RAINS project. The project is jointly funded by the Government of Bangladesh and the Global Agriculture and Food Security Program (GAFSP), with support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and technical assistance from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and GAIN.

Healthy food in the first five years of life not only contributes to a child’s physical growth but also plays a crucial role in brain development, which later strengthens the nation’s intellectual capacity,” said IFAD Country Director Dr. Valentine Achancho while exchanging views with local farmers.

It’s not just about how much we eat, but what we eat and how we combine locally available nutritious foods. By improving our diets with local resources, we can enhance learning ability, productivity, and lay the foundation for a healthier future for all,” he added.

One of the highlights of the event was a nutrition-focused cooking competition, where local women farmers showcased their creativity and skills in preparing healthy dishes. A nutrition-themed drama was also staged by local farmers, conveying messages on healthy eating habits, child nutrition, adolescent and maternal health, elderly nutrition, and the collective role of farmers in ensuring food security. The drama aimed to raise awareness and inspire positive behavioral change.

Participants also shared personal stories about improving their livelihoods and quality of life, creating an inspiring and engaging atmosphere throughout the programme.

The event was inaugurated by Md. Saiful Islam, Deputy Director of the Department of Agricultural Extension, while Dr. Asheque Mahfuz, Portfolio Lead at GAIN, delivered the welcome remarks. The keynote paper for World Food Day 2025 was presented by Dr. Valentine Achancho, IFAD Country Director.

Other distinguished attendees included Dr. Emdadul Haque, Project Director; Syed Abu Siam Julkarnaine, Deputy Project Director; Zahidul Islam, Upazila Nirbahi Officer of Kalaroa; representatives from the Bangladesh Institute of Applied Nutrition (BIRTAN); officials from FAO; and delegates from GAIN.

Speakers at the event emphasized the significance of World Food Day 2025, underscoring the vital role of women and youth in ensuring access to safe and nutritious food for all. They noted that nutrition awareness is not only essential for good health but also serves as the foundation for sustainable agriculture and social development.

The organizers expressed hope that such initiatives will help spread practical knowledge on nutrition at the community level, promote balanced diets, and inspire women-led efforts toward building a healthier society.