Boosting financial independence for women in Cox’s Bazar through cash transfers

Above: Jaynab Begum* is hoping for a better future for her family through her goat rearing business. Photo: DSK

E-cash transfers are giving women in host communities in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, the chance to start their own small businesses, and to have greater control over their finances.  

The initiative, which is supported by the Australian Humanitarian Partnership response in Bangladesh through the EKOTA Consortium, Christian Aid and local NGO Dushtha Shasthya Kendra, has reached 740 women since 2021. Alongside the cash grant, participants received guidance on income generating activities, and skills training on areas such as leadership, financial management and business planning.

For Rina Rani Dhor*, who is now earning funds by vaccinating poultry and native chickens in her village, working with community facilitators helped her see business opportunities she hadn’t previously noticed.

“My family now can live with dignity as I was able to engage with the project and the group. I received the cash grants through a bank account and am confident enough to manage my own account for my family,” she said.

“Particularly after the COVID-19 epidemic hit, [the facilitators] went above and beyond for us, keeping us informed and secure.”

For Afia Begum*, a 10,000 BDT (AUD $142) cash grant and training has built her confidence.

“My home is managed jointly by my husband and myself, but I'm delighted to have my own income and now I know my rights,” Afia said.

Jaynab Begum*, who has a disability, is hoping her goat rearing can support her family’s goals. Her family has no land to cultivate, and her husband only earns a small income.

“It is very difficult for me to move and walk. Now I hope to become more independent through goat rearing and can use the money for my family’s development as per my business plan,” she said.

Hajera Khatun* received training on poultry rearing and prepared a shade structure for her poultry with technical assistance from the livestock department of Ramu Upazila. The cash transfer enabled her to put her new skills into action.

“I am fortunate to contribute to my family and demonstrate what I have learnt from the skills capacity building training,” Hajera said.

Mobile money transfers to participants improved accountability, traceability, and transparency of fund disbursement, while also supporting women to become engaged in the banking system. The transfers were made after participants had completed their business and skills training.

Read more about the AHP response in Bangladesh.

*Names changed