A pivotal technical workshop titled “Updating Health National Adaptation Plan with Roadmap and Costing for Implementation” took place on June 12, 2024, at the Six Seasons Hotel in Gulshan 2, Dhaka. Organized by the Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control, and Research (IEDCR) with technical support from the World Health Organization (WHO) and VAALO avant-garde Ltd., the workshop focused on revising Bangladesh's Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP) 2018 by developing a detailed implementation roadmap and conducting a cost-benefit analysis.

The event convened a diverse group of experts and stakeholders, including representatives from various NGOs, to review and provide comprehensive feedback on the H-NAP-2018 document. Discussions centered on the profound impacts of climate change on public health in Bangladesh, highlighting direct and indirect effects such as the rise in vector-borne diseases, under-nutrition, and mental health challenges.

Participants were divided into three groups to review different sections of the H-NAP-2018 and familiarize themselves with the WHO's operational framework for building climate-resilient health systems. Each group analyzed specific chapters and provided valuable insights and suggestions, which were then discussed in a plenary session. The workshop concluded with presentations from each group, followed by discussions and the formulation of actionable recommendations for the updated H-NAP-2024.

Detailed discussions on financial strategies for implementing the updated plan underscored the workshop's sessions, emphasizing the importance of securing government endorsement for broader impact and ensuring sustained collaborative efforts. Closing remarks highlighted the critical need for a robust, climate-resilient health system to protect Bangladesh's population amidst escalating climate challenges.

This workshop represents a significant advancement in addressing the health impacts of climate change in Bangladesh, emphasizing the necessity of collective action and strategic planning in constructing a resilient health system.

VAALO, in partnership with SNV Netherlands, has taken a significant step towards understanding and addressing Gender Equality and Social Inclusion (GESI) challenges in urban Bangladesh. In this regard, on 13th May, 2024 visited Bagerhat Pourashava for a consultative meeting to marks a crucial phase of the ongoing study being conducted for SNV Netherlands. 

The meeting provided a platform for VAALO’s team and the Additional Cluster Coordinator of SNV Netherlands to engage in productive discussions with Pourashava officials regarding the study completion process. The collaboration aims to gather valuable insights into the GESI landscape in urban areas and identify potential solutions to promote equality and inclusivity. 

After this preliminary consultation visit to Bagerhat Pourashava, VAALO then develop the necessary study tool and permission for the GESI introductory workshop and field visit. The field visit on GESI was conducted from 1st June to 6th June 2024. During the field visit we have visited ward number 3, 4, 6, 7 of Bagerhat Pourashava including Cyclone centres, slums, to understand community perspective. Other than that, we also visited important government department like child affair, social service, health, education, water development board, LGED, women and elected members of Pourashava for stakeholder consultation.

Both VAALO and SNV Netherlands expressed their commitment to working closely with Bagerhat Pourashava to ensure the success of the study. The partnership reflects a shared vision of creating a more equitable and inclusive urban environment for all citizens.

"WHO, IEDCR, and VAALO Unite for updating H-NAP 2018, on 23rd May, 2024, where health experts and consultants from the World Health Organization (WHO), Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), and Vulnerability Assessment, Advocacy and Livelihoods Officer (VAALO) recently came together for a crucial consultation meeting to discuss the development of the Health National Adaptation Plan (H-NAP) 2024. Building upon the framework of H-NAP 2018, the meeting aimed to revisit and update key aspects of the plan to ensure its relevance and effectiveness in addressing current health challenges in Bangladesh. 

The primary focus of the updated plan is to seamlessly integrate with the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) and develop comprehensive strategies for climate change resilience in Bangladesh's coastal and drought-prone areas. This strategic integration seeks to enhance the country's capacity to effectively respond to the health impacts of climate change, particularly in vulnerable regions. 

The collaborative effort and expertise brought into the consultation meeting are expected to lead to a robust and forward-looking H-NAP 2024 that will play a pivotal role in safeguarding public health and well-being in the face of ongoing environmental challenges. Stay tuned for further updates on the progress and implementation of H-NAP 2024 as it continues to evolve to meet the health needs of Bangladesh's communities.

The "Rapid Gender Assessment of SRHR Consortium (RHSTEP and BAPSA)" aimed to understand gender dynamics within the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Consortium, which includes RHSTEP and BAPSA.

Through collaborative efforts, workshops were organized and Key Informant Interviews (KII) were conducted with the SRHR Consortium (RHSTEP and BAPSA), alongside government representatives from pertinent health sectors. These activities provided valuable insights into gender-specific challenges and opportunities in SRHR programs. The duration of the assignment was January and February 2024, and we delivered the final report on March 5, 2024.

The findings of this assessment will inform future strategies and interventions to ensure inclusivity and effectiveness in SRHR initiatives. VAALO remains committed to promoting gender-responsive approaches in SRHR, fostering improved health outcomes and empowerment for all.