Quarterly Performance Report October – December 2018

Treena Bishop

Chief of Party, SAPLING Helen Keller International House 10E, Road 82 Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212 Tel:+880-172-909-7136; +880-2-882-3055 E-mail: [email protected]

Aminuzzaman Talukder

Country Director, Bangladesh Helen Keller International House10E, Road 82 Gulshan 2, Dhaka 1212 Tel:+880-174-660-9064; +880-2-882-3055 E-mail: [email protected]

Sustainable Agriculture and Production Linked to Improved Nutrition Status, Resilience and Gender Equity (SAPLING)

Quarterly Performance Report October – December 2018

Helen Keller International

Cooperative Agreement No. AID-FFP-A-15-00010

Submitted to

United States Agency for International Development Bureau of Democracy, Conflict and Humanitarian Assistance

Office of Food for Peace

SAPLING, Helen Keller International, Bangladesh

2 January 2019, 1st Quarter, FY 2019 AID-FFP-A-15-00010

CONTENTS LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS .................................................................... 3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .......................................................................................................... 5

INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................... 7

DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES AND PROGRESS TOWARD THIS QUARTER’S OUTCOMES ................................................................................................................................. 7

1.1. Purpose 1: Increased income and access to nutritious foods attained equitably by both women and men......................................................................................................................................... 8

1.2 Purpose 2: Improved nutritional status of children under five years of age, pregnant and lactating women and adolescent girls ......................................................................................... 15

1.3 Purpose 3: Sustained Gender Equitable Ability of People, Households, Communities, and Systems to Mitigate, Adapt to and Recover from Human-Induced and Natural Shocks and Stresses ....................................................................................................................................... 21

STRENGTHENING HOUSEHOLD PREPAREDNESS OF THOSE MOST VULNERABLE TO DISASTER ............................................................................................... 22

2.1 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) ............................................................................................. 25

2.2 Local Capacity Building ............................................................................................................. 26

2.3 Monetization of Commodities .................................................................................................... 28

2.4 Coordination and External Relations .......................................................................................... 28

2.5 Grants and Finance...................................................................................................................... 29

2.6 Communications ......................................................................................................................... 29

CHALLENGES AND LESSONS LEARNED.......................................................................... 30



LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS

ANC Antenatal Care

ARR Annual Results Report

BDRCS Bangladesh Red Crescent Society

CCT Conditional Cash Transfer

CDRT Community Disaster Response Team

CFW Cash for Work

CHSW Community Health Service Worker

CHT Chittagong Hill Tracts

CRA Community Risk Assessment

CRS Catholic Relief Services

DAE Department of Agriculture Extension

DFSA Development Food Security Activity

DMC Disaster Management Committee

DPHE Department of Health and Public Engineering

DRM Disaster Risk Management

DRR Disaster Risk Reduction

EPI Expanded Programme on Immunization

FAA Fixed Amount Awards

FF Field Facilitator

FSCD Fire Service and Civil Defense

FY Fiscal Year

GESI Gender Equality and Social Inclusion

GIS Geographic Information Systems

GMP Growth Monitoring and Promotion

GOB Government of Bangladesh

HH Household

HKI Helen Keller International

ICIP Internal Control Improvement Plan

IDDR International Day for Disaster Reduction

IEHFP Integrated Enhanced Homestead Food Production

IGA Income Generating Activities

IP Implementing Partner

LC Learning Center

LCF Learning Corps Fellows



LOA Life of Award

M&E Monitoring and Evaluation

MCHN Maternal and Child Health and Nutrition

MOCHTA Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs

MOHFW Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

MOU Memorandum of Understanding

MT Metric Ton

MTE Midterm Evaluation

NGO Non-Governmental Organization

OFDHA Office of Food, Disaster and Humanitarian Assistance

PDMC Pourasova Disaster Management Committee

PLW Pregnant and Lactating Women

PNC Postnatal Care

Q Quarter

RCY Red Cross Youth

RRAP Risk Reduction Action Plan

SAPLING Sustainable Agriculture and Production Linked to Improved Nutrition Status, Resilience, and Gender Equity

SBCC Social Behavior Change Communication

SDG Sustainable Development Goals

SILC Savings and Internal Lending Communities

SOD Standing Order on Disaster

UCV Urban Community Volunteers

UDMC Union Disaster Management Committee

UHFPO Upazila Health and Family Planning Officer

USAID United States Agency for International Development

UzDMC Upazila Disaster Management Committee

WASH Water, Sanitation and Hygiene

WATSAN Water and Sanitation

WUC Water User Committee



EXECUTIVE SUMMARY On September 30, 2015, Helen Keller International (HKI) was awarded a five-year cooperative agreement by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to lead the Sustainable Agriculture and Production Linked to Improved Nutrition Status, Resilience and Gender Equity (SAPLING), Development Food Security Activity (DFSA). SAPLING’s goal is improved gender equitable food security, nutrition and resilience of vulnerable people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) region of Bangladesh. This is achieved by implementing activities designed to increase household (HH) availability, utilization and access to nutritious foods and income, enhance maternal and child health and nutrition (MCHN), and improve resilience of families who are under constant threat of natural and human-induced shocks and stressors. SAPLING is supporting the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs (MOCHTA) to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) by implementing activities in the upazilas of Ruma, Bandarban Sadar, Lama, Thanchi and Rowangchari. The estimated total population of SAPLING’s working area, 279,235, is comprised of 12 ethnic groups, including Bengali. SAPLING’s Midterm Evaluation (MTE) team initiated its field work in September 2018, ending with a Bandarban-based validation workshop in the first week of October. The workshop was to ensure understanding of the findings by the Bandarban-based SAPLING management team and get feedback and input on prioritization of recommendations. Stakeholder debriefings were held in Dhaka with partners and the mission prior to the MTE team’s departure from the country. The draft report was initially shared with SAPLING for feedback. After clarifications were made, a semi-final report was submitted to USAID. The MTE team conducted a presentation in Washington, D.C. on December 7, during which feedback was solicited. Once received, the report will be finalized. Directly following the MTE, SAPLING finalized its Annual Results Report (ARR) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2018 and Pipeline Resource Estimate Proposal (PREP) for FY19. Each incorporated lessons learned from implementation and research conducted, including MTE recommendations, which were incorporated to the extent possible within existing time and resources. In accordance with MTE recommendations, SAPLING streamlined its Integrated Enhanced Homestead Food Production (IEHFP) curriculum – reducing the number and length of sessions and adjusting the delivery schedule to better meet participants’ availability. This quarter SAPLING conducted IEHFP sessions on improved horticulture production and poultry rearing, each stressing integration with disaster risk reduction (DRR), water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) and nutrition. These sessions focused on strengthening areas of weakness identified during field visits and in SAPLING’s FY18 results. To demonstrate the importance of growing with improved varieties and promote climate-smart agriculture, five, easy-to-grow, high-yield and/or resilient varieties of seeds for production of nutrient-rich winter vegetables were distributed to 47,696 IEHFP participants while select learning center (LC) leaders were given four additional varieties to further diversify production by producing seedlings to share with their members. To increase consumption of animal source foods that can be easily produced by poor and extreme poor families, two chicks were distributed to pregnant and lactating women (PLW) upon completion of required poultry training. Furthermore, to build capacity of local input suppliers and increase availability of quality inputs, SAPLING trained and contracted 17



participants to produce papaya saplings for provision to papaya income generating activity (IGA) participants, helping these nascent entrepreneurs to kickstart their “farming as a business” and link with local providers. Similarly, mini-hatchery producers were identified who will receive technical and business training in the coming quarters and be linked with SAPLING participants – this initiative further strengthens participants’ access and availably of quality inputs and facilitates the development of bridging capital between producers and local suppliers. Continuing to strengthen income generation and nutrition-related outcomes, additional training was provided to fish pond operators and open water fishers. To increase access to locally available financial services, Savings and Internal Lending Community (SILC) groups were formed and a process for linking SILC with IGAs was started. Putting the MTE recommendations into practice, SAPLING’s MCHN team focused on strengthening the capacity of frontline staff, including developing and conducting a knowledge assessment for community health service workers (CHSWs) and initiating bi-monthly targeted refresher sessions and learning and sharing meetings. Locations in each upazila for remote, mobile antenatal care (ANC) clinics were identified and agreed upon with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MOHFW) to increase the number of pregnant women with access to services. In addition, an agreement to train 15 Department of Health and Public Engineering (DPHE) engineers to repair water systems was reached. Joint monitoring visits to further familiarize health officials with SAPLING activities and advocate for inclusion of CHSWs into the health system took place in Bandarban Sadar, Rowangchari and Ruma. Outreach activities with MCHN HHs, adolescent girls’ groups and growth monitoring and promotion (GMP) sessions were conducted to improve knowledge and encourage greater health seeking behaviors. SAPLING also organized rallies, quizzes, and competitions to observe World Food Day, Handwashing Day, and the International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) to raise awareness of the importance of nutrition, WASH and disaster preparedness in support of efforts by the Government of Bangladesh (GOB). SAPLING continued to focus on strengthening preparedness and response capacities of sustainable, targeted institutions and communities, supporting upazila and union-level water and sanitation (WATSAN) committees, community-level Water User Committees (WUCs), Urban Community Volunteers (UCVs), Disaster Management Committees (DMCs), and completing HH preparedness sessions in the five most vulnerable unions to disaster. Training continued for Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) volunteers and school teachers on WASH in schools to create sustainable support mechanisms in Bandarban district. Personal protection and search and rescue kits were distributed to four Upazila and one District Red Cross Youth (RCY) teams to enable them to serve as a community resource in times of need. Progress was made on putting knowledge into practice and institutionalizing learnings under SAPLING’s memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Dhaka University. Namely, a national validation workshop for landslide probability modeling and two geospatial training workshops were held with stakeholders to help predict the likelihood of common disasters in the CHT and serve as a prototype for other types of probability modeling. Further contributing to human capital development, recruitment of a fourth group of Learning Corp Fellows (LCF) was initiated. In total, 84 youth will now gain valuable experience through on-the-job training and be



better prepared to contribute to the sustainability of development in the CHT. Similarly, SAPLING conducted an organizational assessment of its six local non-governmental organization (NGO) partners to identify needs to strengthen their ability to provide long-term support to the community.

INTRODUCTION On September 30, 2015, Helen Keller International (HKI) was awarded a five-year cooperative agreement by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to lead SAPLING, a Development Food Security Activity (DFSA). SAPLING’s goal is improved gender equitable food security, nutrition and resilience of vulnerable people in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) region of Bangladesh. This is achieved by implementing activities designed to increase household (HH) availability, utilization and access to nutritious foods and income, enhance maternal and child health and nutrition (MCHN), and improve resilience of families who are under constant threat of natural and human-induced shocks and stressors. SAPLING is supporting the Ministry of Chittagong Hill Tracts Affairs (MOCHTA) to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals by implementing activities in the upazilas of Ruma, Bandarban Sadar, Lama, Thanchi and Rowangchari. The estimated target population of 279,235 is comprised of 12 ethnic groups, including Bengali. Each group has its own language, cultural traditions and behavioral norms. SAPLING’s strategies and activities are designed to foster sustainable change, working through government and community systems to strengthen them and provide high-quality, lasting support. All aspects of the program, from IEHFP, IGA, MCHN and adolescent group sessions to health systems’ support, DRR strengthening and WASH support are implemented to create sustained systems. SAPLING is implemented through a consortium approach with HKI responsible for overall strategic vision and management, and technical direction of MCHN, resilient livelihoods, gender equality and social inclusion (GESI) and environment; Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the strategic lead on disaster risk management (DRM), water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), local capacity building, and Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC); WorldFish Center is the technical lead on aquaculture in two upazilas, and Caritas Bangladesh manages activities in three upazilas, and provides technical oversight on WASH, DRM and SILC in all five. Three local NGOs, Tahzingdong, Toymu and GRAUS, directly implement all field-level activities in the designated target areas. This quarterly performance report covers the period of October 1, 2018 through December 1, 2018, which corresponds to the first quarter of USAID’s FY2019. Highlights and progress of activities undertaken within the quarter are included herein.

DESCRIPTION OF ACTIVITIES AND PROGRESS TOWARD THIS QUARTER’S OUTCOMES Each purpose is being achieved through the implementation of core activities with cross-cutting themes of GESI, environment, WASH, youth empowerment and local capacity building. All



technical activities are reinforced through the application of a comprehensive social and behavior change communication (SBCC) approach aimed at improving gender equitable food security, nutrition and resilience. The following sections include highlights from the quarter.

1.1. Purpose 1: Increased income and access to nutritious foods attained equitably by both women and men

Integrated Enhanced Homestead Food Production (IEHFP) Although FY18 data showed that approximately 95% of IEHFP participants practiced improved agriculture technologies due to their involvement in SAPLING, the uptake was not consistent across technologies and very low in some. This is due to multiple reasons including not all topics being covered by the end of the FY, participants’ availability and their retention capacity. As indicated by the MTE, learning takes time and absorption requires repetition of short, clear messages along with more opportunities for “learning-by-doing”. Based on the MTE recommendations, IEHFP sessions have been reduced in number and length. At the same time, the FY19 sessions have been revised using evidence to increase uptake in critical areas, including climate adaptation, pest and disease management, irrigation, livestock management, post-harvest handling, storage and marketing. Two comprehensive horticulture sessions designed to strengthen key outcomes in production, nutrition, WASH and DRR were carried out during the quarter, along with a series of poultry sessions that were initiated in FY18. As part of the horticulture training, seeds for winter vegetable production were provided in two steps designed to increase learning, while at the same time reduce overall production time, labor and cost. In the first step, four types of seeds (eggplant, tomato, sweet gourd and cabbage) were distributed to 1,460 Learning Center (LC) Leaders that met appropriate criteria including sufficient access to water and willingness to produce seedlings for participants. This production process facilitated the development of the LC leaders’ skills in propagation and allowed them to explore input provision as a potential future IGA. It also provided participants of corresponding IEHFP groups with earlier access to seedlings, which resulted in their ability to put food from their gardens on the table sooner and/or receive higher market value for their early harvests. Approximately fifty percent of the seedlings grown at these LCs were distributed to respective group members while the rest remained with the LC leaders. In the second step of distribution, five types of easy-to-grow vegetable seeds (bottle gourd, french bean, kangkong, raishak and red amaranth) were procured from a well-known, high-quality seed company and distributed by local input providers to all 47,696 participants including LC leaders. By directly linking participants with local retailers, SAPLING facilitates the development of long-term relationships for input provision and services, while using project supplied seeds reduces participants’ risks, builds

Deputy Director, Department of Agriculture Extension (DAE), is delivering speech at a distribution during seed distribution event in Bandarban on November 03, 2018



skills in horticulture through “learning-by-doing” and creates a better understanding of yields and germination rates of improved varieties. As part of its poultry rearing training, two chicks are provided to SAPLING PLWs to encourage and enable consumption of Vitamin A rich eggs for families with young children after completion of three sessions. However, distribution was split due to inability of established vendors to provide local poultry at scale. The first phase of distribution, completed in FY18, was to 2,100 extreme-poor PLW, while in this quarter, 7,450 PLW received two chickens. The remaining 2,487 PLW will receive their chicks in the next quarter. Income Generating Activities (IGA)

Weaving Weaving groups continued production and sales following hands-on training on production and creation of market linkages in FY18. By the end of the quarter, Aarong1 had placed orders directly with 12 weavers groups. The remaining six weavers groups are selling directly in the local market. Table 1 includes data on sales made by weaver group members to Aarong in Quarter 1 (Q1) (October-December) of FY19. SAPLING’s IGA business skills course will be delivered to weaving groups in Q2.

Table 1: Weaving sales data resulting from Aarong linked producer groups

Upazila

Weaving product sales (October-December 2018)

# of weavers involved

Total Shawl (single)

Unit price

Total Income

Total Shawl

(double)

Unit price

Total Income

(Bangladesh Taka)

Sadar 37 830 300 2,49,000/- - - -

Ruma 34 98 270 26,460/- 142 340 48,280/-

Rowangchari 25 133 300 39,900/- - - -

Total 96 1,061 3,15,360/- 142 48,280/-

(Source: Mr. Ritan Chakma, Aarong local agent)

1 Aarong is a BRAC social enterprise that is known for its ethnically made handcrafted products. http://www.aarong.com/

Ms. Darimala Tangchangya, Battali para, Alekhyong union of Rowangchari is benefiting from weaving



Papaya After experiencing challenges with local availability of inputs, SAPLING contracted 17 participants from Lama, Bandarban Sadar and Rowangchari upazilas to produce saplings for IGA papaya value chain participants. This ensured saplings were available where needed, while at the same time allowed the contracted producers to explore becoming long-term input suppliers. A total of 31,745 red lady papaya saplings were procured from the contract farmers and distributed to 907 IGA papaya participants out of a total of 1,206. The remaining papaya IGA participants will be provided with saplings in the upcoming quarter. Training and on-going technical assistance for all papaya producers began in FY18 and will continue throughout FY19. Mini-poultry hatchery establishment SAPLING’s poultry distribution was hampered by a shortage of local, indigenous poultry in the area. To mitigate this and respond to an unmet need, SAPLING is creating mini-poultry hatcheries as IGAs. Mini-hatcheries will receive both technical and business training as well as a conditional cash transfer (CCT) upon completion of a business plan if the CCT mechanism is approved by USAID for FY19. The following table demonstrates the number of participants selected by upazila based on criteria including adequate space and previous poultry-rearing experience: Table 2: Selected mini-hatcheries by Upazila

Upazila Bandarban

Sadar Rowangchari Lama Ruma Thanchi Total

No. of hatcheries

40 20 100 20 20 200

The number of mini-hatcheries per upazila corresponds to the population density in each location. The required technical training with input supports for mini-hatchery establishment and management will be organized in the next quarter.

Papaya sapling distribution at Dakkin Sheler toya para, Pouroshova, Lama



Aquaculture Open Water Fisheries Management training for 166 participants engaged in fishing on the Matamuhuri and Sangu rivers was conducted in Rowangchari and Lama upazilas to engender more sustainable fishing practices. The topics of the training included identification of available fish, fish from the Matamuhuri and Sangu rivers that are endangered or now extinct, identification of the causes of reduced fish populations in the rivers, how to restore fish populations and GOB open-water fishing laws. Trainers undertook these sessions emphasizing group work, experience sharing and participatory discussions. The Upazila Government Fishery Officer provided the orientation on the open-water fishing law. Refresher training on Fish Culture for Aquaculture participants

In December 2018, SAPLING provided a one-day refresher training to aquaculture participants on fish culture technology. Six hundred participants of the 604 who received basic training on fish culture in FY18 attended (485 from Lama and 115 from Rowangchari). This training was designed to strengthen participant knowledge and skills about fish farming, management, fish feed, fingerling stocking, and address weaknesses identified in the FY18 routine participant survey data. To increase absorption, the training included group discussions, demonstrations and hands-on activities.

Linkage events During the reporting quarter, 37 linkage events were held to establish better connections with different actors involved in fish farming. Seven events in Rowangchari and 30 in Lama engaged input suppliers, service providers, paikers (local buyers), arotder (middlemen), retailers, wholesalers, fish traders and Upazila fishery officers from the GOB Fisheries Department. A total of 778 individuals participated. The main objectives were to:

build communication and coordination between fish farmers and input suppliers; improve coordination between government and non-governmental service providers; develop linkages between fish farmers and fish traders, wholesalers, and retailers;

Open Water Fisheries Management training at Lama upazila

Mr. Firoz Khan, Project leader, WorldFish Center, is taking session at Refresher Training on Aquaculture at Rowangchari upazila



ensure support for the continuity of fish culturing activities beyond the life of award (LOA);

develop a greater sense of unity and foster networking among the fish farmers; and

support a continuous supply of inputs for fish farming.

Fish Feed (Fisheries Inputs) Distribution After completion of technical training in FY18, SAPLING distributed five types of fingerling species (Rui, Katla, Mrigel, Silver Carp and Monosex Tilapia) to 601 aquaculture participants. Strong growth and health are important for achieving optimal fish production, which requires supplementary feed in addition to natural fish foods which are generally rich in protein but not in carbohydrates. Supplementary feed ensures optimal growth within a short period of time, increases production from small ponds, increases fish immunity and reduces fish mortality, ultimately increasing production. Twenty kilograms of fish feed was provided to each of the 601 participants during the reporting period. This provision was to enable participants to feed their fish with quality materials until they could make the supplementary feed from rice, wheat bran, oil cake and dried fish as they were taught in the course. Fish feed suppliers were also introduced to aquaculture producers at the linkage events, so they could continue to purchase commercial feed if desired. Fish Based Product

Training on Basic Nutrition and Introduction of Fish based products for SAPLING Staff To enhance nutrition knowledge for field staff and promotion of fish-based products, training on nutrition education related to the importance of fish and the introduction of fish-based products into the diets of PLW and children under two was provided to eighteen union-level SAPLING staff. During the training, participants received information on nutrition, micronutrients, and the importance of animal source foods, including fish, during the first 1,000-day period. They were also oriented on the preparation of fish-based products.

Fish Feed distribution at Taracha union of Rowangchari upazila

Linkage event with the active participants of Upazila Fisheries Officers, Fish Nursery owner, feed seller, aquaculture participants



Distribution of fish-based products to the selected PLW In this reporting quarter, a second distribution of fish-based products was provided to 115 PLWs and 100 children to continue to assess acceptability and continuity of consumption. Five fish chutney jars (300 grams each) for a one-month consumption period for each PLW and 30 sachets (10 grams each) for a one-month consumption period for each child under two years was distributed, totaling 4,200 fish chutney jars and 20,000 sachets of fish powder distributed to the selected participants from Lama and Rowangchari upazilas. Savings and Internal Lending Communities (SILC) SAPLING formed 114 new SILC groups during the reporting period, bringing the total to 466. These groups were mainly formed in new paras with 2,011 participants for an average of 18 members/group. As part of the group formation process, SILC agents conducted initial preparatory/sensitization meetings with 126 communities. SAPLING is using the SAVIX MIS to record group activity. This database is internationally recognized and used to capture SILC-related data worldwide. As of December 31, 2018, for the 352 SILC groups SAPLING established in FY18, data show: Total members: 6,480 Total amount of member savings: BDT2 5.13 million Average savings per member: BDT 791 Total amount of loans funded: BDT 5.37 million Total amount of loans outstanding to members: BDT 3.47 million Loan fund utilization rate: 65% Percentage of members with outstanding loans: 22% Total amount of cash in SILC Boxes: BDT. 1.9 million Total amount of social/emergency funds: BDT. 0.23 million3

2 Estimated average exchange rate is 80 BDT to $1 USD. 3 Social emergency funds are interest free funds that groups decide to invest in and can be used to support member’s urgent or emergency needs. The group decides what constitutes an urgent or emergency need.



Expanding SILC coverage In response to the MTE recommendation to use SILC strategically to increase financial services access to IGA participants, SAPLING initiated processes to expand SILC to areas where IGA groups have already been established (when viable/appropriate). This involved SILC-led upazila team working groups mapping out existing IGA and SILC groups by union/para and reviewing data on existing financial services, population density, etc. By the end of the reporting period, catchment areas for existing SILC agents were revised and new areas and requirements for additional agents were identified. A plan for completion of new SILC group formation and training was developed and will be carried out in the coming quarters. SILC module delivery to new groups SILC agents conducted a total of 473 sessions with new SILC groups this quarter; each group received between one to five sessions (depending on when they were formed) of a nine-curriculum series. SILC Agents and Officers also provided hands-on coaching support to 352 previously formed SILC groups by overseeing regular meetings (weekly/ fortnightly/ monthly as fixed by the groups). SILC module delivery to FY18 groups SILC agents delivered session nine (the share out session) to one SILC group in Rowangchari and one in Lama that were formed in FY18. The groups decided to share out their savings and profits on Christmas Eve to celebrate the holiday. Members received an average of BDT. 575 in Rowangchari and BDT. 1,204 in Lama. Both groups have started their second cycle of savings. Observance of World Food Day GOB celebrations for World Food Day were supported at the district level on October 16, 2018 based on the theme: “Our actions are our Future; Zero Hunger by 2030”. This event was arranged by the Bandarban district administration and included rallies, discussions and a day long fair. SAPLING hosted a stall demonstrating food production and nutrition to raise awareness on how SAPLING is

SILC meeting at Sunalu para, Rowangchori Sadar Union, December 09, 2018 Photo credit: Aung Cho U Marma

IGA mapping & new SILC Agent blocking at Paindu Union office, Ruma on December 12, 2018 Photo Credit: Mazharul Islam Ashi

Deputy Commissioner and Deputy Director, DAE of Bandarban are visiting SAPLING stall during World Food Day



supporting the GOB to achieve its SDGs in Bandarban.

1.2 Purpose 2: Improved nutritional status of children under five years of age, pregnant and lactating women and adolescent girls

During this quarter, activities undertaken included refresher training to build the capacity of managers and specialists to provide mentoring, on-the-job coaching, and supportive supervision for CHSWs per the MTE recommendations. Learning through experience sharing and training CHSWs in session delivery was emphasized, while refresher training on technical content and updated protocols was initiated. As part of improving skills and knowledge of frontline staff, SAPLING developed a knowledge tests for CHSWs to determine capacity building needs.

Refresher training for technical staff SAPLING conducted a two-day refresher training on MCHN technical content and mentoring to enhance effective supportive supervision and quality activity monitoring of frontline staff. A total of 10 MCHN specialists, the MCHN manager, the manager of tropical disease and eye care, gender officer, and program managers attended the training. Topics included facilitation and counseling skills, problem solving, supportive supervision, program quality monitoring, practical session application, and a review of the objectives of each of the interventions. Assess skills and knowledge of CHSWs SAPLING conducted a knowledge test for 131 CHSWs in the reporting period. The remaining CHSWs will be assessed in January 2019. The objective of the knowledge test was to assess CHSWs’ understanding of the material needed to carry out their roles and responsibilities and to develop targeted capacity building and supportive supervision plans to improve the quality of program delivery. This knowledge test will be conducted again in the third and fourth quarter of FY19 to measure improvements. Union-level Bi-monthly learning-sharing meetings with CHSWs A total of 32 union-level bi-monthly learning-sharing meetings were held with 499 CHSWs. The objective of these meetings is for the CHSWs to share their experiences including challenges, so they can help each other solve problems, share technical feedback, engage in work planning and receive updates on upcoming MCHN activities.

Group work session on MCHN specialist's responsibilities for supportive supervision and program quality monitoring on December 19, 2018; Photo credit: Aung Chano Marma



Bi-monthly refresher and session delivery training for CHSWs This quarter SAPLING initiated refresher trainings in five unions with 81 CHSWs. These bi-monthly refresher trainings will be held at an average of every other month in the union offices to address identified areas of weakness, and train CHSWs on how to conduct upcoming group sessions as per curriculums. This first refresher training was designed to respond to MTE recommendations to increase understanding of both how activities are done and why they are done, with the objective being to strengthen knowledge and improve quality of ongoing activities. In the training, SAPLING emphasized how to improve facilitation and counselling skills, clarified why GMP is important, how to fill out GMP cards, how to conduct discussions with mothers and caregivers, and how to fill out CHSW register books. CHSWs conducted practice sessions as part of hands-on learning techniques. Pre and post-tests were conducted, and results were analyzed to understand and determine gaps needing extra support. Little Doctors orientation The Little Doctors program reaches primary school children with health, WASH and nutrition SBCC to instill positive behaviors to last a lifetime and can be multiplicative with peer and family connections. Nine Little Doctor orientation sessions were conducted in primary schools with 135 students (74 boys and 61 girls). Sessions contained practical information on hand washing and tippy tap use, good nutrition and hygiene practices, deworming, tropical diseases and pictorial descriptions of means of spreading diseases. Organize and facilitate satellite ANC services SAPLING is working to improve access to MCHN services as part of its focus on sustainable, quality service provision. During this reporting period, remote satellite ANC/postnatal care (PNC) sites were finalized and letters of support from the Civil Surgeon’s office and Deputy Director of Family Planning, Bandarban were obtained. Official directives were also issued from the Civil Surgeon’s office to the respective upazila offices to provide cooperation for the clinics. The satellite ANC/PNC services will be implemented jointly by the MOHFW and SAPLING using existing GOB human resources (Sub-Assistant Medical Officer/ Family Welfare Visitor/Medical officer/nurse/Community Health Care Provider) and logistical support from the project. Fifteen satellite clinics will be held every other month in three remote sites per upazila to increase access to ANC/PNC services. Advocacy with the Civil Surgeon’s office and MOHFW

Little doctor orientation at Don Vosco School, Pouroshova, Bandarban on November 12, 2018 Photo Credit: C: Hla Hla Ching Chak

Group work session during the training in Taracha, Rowangchari Upazila, on December 23, 2018. Photo credit: Nusrat Jahan



is also being undertaken to ensure this service continues after LOA. Satellite services will begin in the upcoming reporting period. Facilitate joint monitoring with District-level department heads/representatives SAPLING organized a joint monitoring visit this quarter with the district-level MOHFW department head, the Bandarban Civil Surgeon and Deputy Director of Family Planning. They observes a MCHN group session conducted by a CHSW and a handwashing session demonstrated by Little Doctors in Iradong para, Rajbila union of Bandarban Sadar Upazila. During the visit, the monitoring team also inspected CHSW field registers and discussed the learnings and expectations of participants. The government officials were updated and more familiar with SAPLING activities as a result of the visit and were able to verify the quality of MCHN messaging through open discussion with participants. Advocacy with the MOHFW is on-going to include CHSWs as Ministry outreach staff. Facilitate joint monitoring with Upazila-level department heads/representatives SAPLING organized two upazila-level joint monitoring visits with local government representatives and the department heads of health and family planning in the Rowangchari and Ruma upazilas in December 2018 to increase awareness and ownership of SAPLING activities. The visitors observed LCs and MCHN group session activities. During the visit they discussed learnings and participant expectations from the activities. District-level Coordination with Civil Surgeon SAPLING attended three monthly coordination meetings organized by the Civil Surgeon’s office to provide programmatic updates, conduct advocacy and avoid duplication of efforts. The meetings were chaired by the Bandarban Civil Surgeon and attended by Upazila health and family planning officers (UHFPO), the deputy civil surgeon, the Civil Surgeon medical officer, representatives from the family planning department, the District Public Health Nurse, the Senior health education officer, Medical Technologist, NGO representatives and other stakeholders. Upazila-level Coordination with Health and Family Planning Department SAPLING attended a total of seven upazila-level meetings organized by Health and Family Planning department to exchange information, discuss challenges and collaborate on the

Dr. Monghla prue Marma, UHFPO, Rowangchari, & Mr. Shanti joy Tanchongya, UHFPO, Rowangchari Upazila are with the MCHN group session on December 27, 2018 Photo credit: Mongbathui Marma

Civil Surgeon and DD of Family Planning of Bandarban are with PLW at Iradong para, Rajbila union of Bandarban sadar Upazila on December 24, 2018



achievement of shared outcomes. The meetings were chaired by the UHFPO and attended by the medical officer, sub assistant medical officer, sanitary inspector, Medical Technologist, Health Assistant, Assistant Health Inspector, Family Planning Inspector, Family Welfare Visitor, Family Welfare Assistant and NGO representatives. The main topics discussed were vitamin-A capsule distribution, health department field level activities, SAPLING community level activities, other NGO activities, and the importance of deworming. MCHN (PLW) Group Sessions SAPLING conducts monthly sessions with MCHN participants to increase knowledge and healthy behaviors, including encouraging greater health seeking among 1000-day women. In this reporting period, CHSWs conducted monthly MCHN group sessions with 8,250 MCHN participants, including 2,408 pregnant and 5,839 lactating mothers. Sessions covered nutrition, ANC/PNC, micronutrients (iron, vitamin A, iodine, zinc), childcare during and after sickness, management of pneumonia and diarrhea, handwashing and use of safe water. In the group sessions, CHSWs help members identify health and nutrition problems and locally feasible strategies to address them. Household counseling with PLWs and families with children under two Approximately 8,000 PLWs received a HH visit from the CHSWs during the reporting period. During the visits, CHSWs counselled PLWs/ caregivers, and some families, regarding concerns about illness, feeding and care practices and discussed possible barriers and solutions to improve practices. Growth Monitoring and Promotion (GMP) sessions in community and facility level Monthly GMP sessions are conducted by CHSWs with Field Facilitator (FF) cooperation in community clinics, expanded programme on immunization (EPI) centers and other community locations (i.e. a community member HH for more remote locations) to monitor and increase awareness of the importance of child growth and improve caring practices. During this reporting period, GMP sessions were held in EPI centers and at the para level. Approximately 4,500 children attended GMP sessions this quarter.

Court yard session with PLW group member at senior para, sadar union on November 5, 2018 Photo credit - C: Mong wai ching

GMP session with in EPI center, poschim muslim para, Kuhalong union on November 18, 2018 Photo credit - Mong wai ching



Adolescent Girl Group Sessions SAPLING engages with adolescent girls to encourage the adoption of positive and lasting health behaviors before they marry and begin child rearing. Approximately 8,000 adolescent girls attended sessions this quarter. SAPLING empowers adolescent girls through the facilitation of awareness raising sessions. Sessions covered for girls ages 10-14 were reproductive health and personal hygiene, life and communication skills, deworming and safe food. Sessions for the 15-19 age group included self-esteem and confidence building, the difference between gender and sex, gender roles and discrimination, reproductive health and personal hygiene. In response to MTE recommendations, SAPLING is exploring holding sessions during weekends and holidays. Institutional Strengthening for improved WASH infrastructure and behaviors SAPLING applies three area-specific strategies to improve WASH. The first involves education and dissemination of WASH behavior change messaging and awareness raising through IEHFP, PLW and adolescent girl groups and Little Doctor training sessions in all of SAPLING’s working areas. The second involves strengthening Upazila, Union and Ward level WATSAN committees and training teachers to conduct WASH campaigns in 15 schools in the 11 most vulnerable unions to WASH, and the third includes the first and second strategies, combined with targeted activities in the 100 most vulnerable paras to WASH (within the 11 unions most vulnerable to WASH). The third also involves establishing functioning water user committees (WUCs) in each para, along with provision of WASH hardware support, development of private sector WASH entrepreneurs, and WASH community mobilizers to strengthen institutional capacity on WASH behaviors and increase availability and accessibility of WASH services. In this reporting period, SAPLING deepened its engagement with the DPHE, establishing an agreement to train three DPHE mechanics per upazila (15 total) on WASH infrastructure repair, operations and maintenance in Q2. This will provide a sustainable source of WASH repairs for Bandarban district and strengthen the institutional capacity of GOB to respond to WASH needs. SAPLING is contributing to the sustainability of water and sanitation provision in areas that are vulnerable to WASH by strengthening WATSAN committees in line with the GOB circular. In FY18, SAPLING re-formed and trained five upazila, 11 union and 99 ward WATSAN committees to strengthen leadership capacity for hygiene promotion and WASH planning. In Q1 of FY19 SAPLING supported quarterly planning and progress sharing meetings with Ruma, Bandarban Sadar and Rowangchari Upazila WATSAN committees and monthly meetings with 11 union and 99 ward WATSAN committees across the five upazilas (a total of 131 meetings).



In Q1 of FY19, SAPLING also facilitated monthly planning and progress review meetings with 100 WUCs to reinforce the capacity of this sustainable water management system. Committees were trained in operational maintenance of WASH infrastructure, fund management and record keeping. A total of 1,076 WUC members participated in the 177 meetings. To ensure transparent funds management practices, 35 WUCs were trained in the SILC approach, allowing them to save funds necessary for water system repair. Twenty-seven WUCs have already started to collect maintenance fees of 10 taka/ HH from their water users for future repairs. The remaining 65 WUCs will be trained in this funds management system in Q2. Three committees have already used funds collected to make repairs. In support of WASH behavior change in adolescents, in FY18, SAPLING trained 56 secondary school teachers from 15 selected schools to conduct a six session WASH curriculum to school students. This quarter, eight monitoring visits were conducted with respective school teachers and school management committees to ensure that sessions were being conducted and correct information transmitted. A total of 123 participants attended these feedback sessions (102 male, 21 female). Five thousand eight hundred and seventy-six students (2,697 male, 3,179 female) received three sessions (hand washing, safe disposal of human feces and safe water management) from the trained teachers. Schools needing more frequent visits were identified and the meetings emphasized the use of facilitation materials during session demonstrations.

SAPLING celebrated Global Hand Washing Day on October 15th in support of the GOB’s theme of “Clean hands – a recipe for health,” and focused on links between handwashing and food, including food hygiene and nutrition. SAPLING organized four discussion sessions with hand washing demonstrations and quiz competitions with the participation of 499 students (five male and 214 females in five secondary schools). The GOB also declared October as Sanitation Month, and this year’s theme was “sustainable development and hygienic sanitation”. In

Handwashing demonstration at Ruposhipara secondary school in Lama Upazila on December 2018 Photo Credit - Rumon Tallukder

WUC meeting with Rhidoy master Para in Ruposhi para union under Lama Upazila on November 19, 2018, Photo Credit Rumon Talukder

WASH session with secondary school students at Rowanchari Govt. High school in Rowanchari Upazila on October 2018 Photo Credit - Abdur Rauf



coordination with the GOB, SAPLING conducted special community sessions in the 100 WASH vulnerable paras. Key discussions included the critical times for hand washing and hand washing with Tippy tap demonstrations. A total of 634 individuals participated (254 male, 380 female). SAPLING also began organizing and facilitating upazila bi-monthly knowledge sharing meetings with WASH frontline staff to improve their WASH knowledge and strengthen facilitation skills. One meeting per upazila was organized with 22 community WASH mobilizers and two field engineers. Key content covered included how to ensure the effectiveness of the WUC and ward WATSAN committee meetings. In the 100 most vulnerable paras to WASH, SAPLING also provides “smart subsidies”. These

are in line with the GOB WASH strategy and are intended to create access to water and sanitation services of those most in need. Eligibility includes need and requires both a demonstrated willingness and capacity to maintain the infrastructure. In addition to those systems already identified and included in the DPHE plan for increased service provision, this reporting period, SAPLING finalized a list of 35 non-functioning water points for repair to the increase safe water accessibility in 29 paras. SAPLING completed the technical feasibility assessment, a pre-survey of required materials and cost. Work will be completed in Q2.

1.3 Purpose 3: Sustained Gender Equitable Ability of People, Households,

Communities, and Systems to Mitigate, Adapt to and Recover from Human-Induced and Natural Shocks and Stresses

SAPLING works to sustainably improve disaster management at the HH, community and structural levels. This quarter efforts focused on capacity development, technical assistance and strengthening mechanisms at all three levels.

Discussion session of handwashing critical time and steps with school students at Ruposhipara secondary school in Lama Upazila on October 2018 ; Photo credit – SM Jahangir

WUC meeting with Dardari Marma Para in Ruposhi para union under Lama Upazila



Strengthening household preparedness of those most vulnerable to disaster To enable better HH level disaster management in the five most vulnerable unions to disaster, SAPLING began conducting six DRM sessions with respective IEHFP groups in FY18. In Q1 SAPLING completed the curricula with 1,255 HHs in Thanchi and Rowangchari (1,219 females and 36 males). Sessions for the remaining 1,557 HHs will be completed by early Q3. A process to capture lessons learned from these HH preparedness sessions will be completed in Q2 and information will be used to increase uptake of HH preparedness activities.

Strengthen Community Capacity to Respond to Disaster In FY18 SAPLING provided support to increase the BDRCS presence in Bandarban through enrollment of volunteers, enabling a sustainable, local support mechanism to prepare for community level response. BDRCS volunteers are predominately young adults, allowing for long-term support and engagement of young people in the community. In Q1, SAPLING supported BDRCS volunteer groups (District, Upazila and Ward) to conduct their regular meetings. A total of 87 meetings were conducted in the reporting period and 1,287 BDRCS volunteers attended (982 male and 305 female). The volunteer groups select activities for engagement which included creation of action plans to conduct Community Disaster Response Team (CDRT) training, simulation-based training for school level volunteers, gardening at Bandarban College as well as First Aid support and orientation for new student orientation. Facilitate training for CDRT Members SAPLING formed and began training of ward-level CDRTs in FY18 to serve as a sustainable community support mechanism, which effectively links communities with Union DMCs (UDMC) and BDRCS. In the first quarter of FY19, the remaining 840 members from 56 CDRTs received training in roles and responsibilities and other basic information using BDRCS trainers and modules. SAPLING provided training to 86 CDRT members (26 female and 60 male) on community-based basic first aid, search and rescue, community leadership, basic DRM and roles of CDRT members in different times of the year. This training will be provided to the remaining CDRT members in the coming quarter.

Practical session of CDRT Training at W#05 of Lama Sadar union on October 22, 2018; Photo Credit : SM Jahangir

HH Preparedness session at Kchoptalo para, Alekhong union of Rowangchari Photo credit : Abdur Rob



Handing over necessary equipment to BDRCS Volunteers To enable volunteer groups to effectively carry out their roles and responsibilities, SAPLING provided four Upazila and one District RCY team with sets of Personal Protection and Search and Rescue equipment. A handover ceremony took place in the SAPLING district office. Support Functioning of Union DMCs Reactivation of 24 UDMCs was completed in FY18. This reporting quarter, SAPLING focused on strengthening UDMCs to carry out their responsibilities including providing support for 20 meetings throughout the five upazilas with the main agenda topic of cyclone preparedness. A total of 532 UDMC members (151 female and 381 male) attended. Although still notable compared to previous years, due to national elections in December, the number of participants was lower than in the previous quarter. Training of all UDMC members in Lama, Ruma and Bandarban Sadar and 93 UDMC members in Thanchi and Rowangchari was completed in FY18. The remaining 163 UDMC members in Thanchi and Rowangchari began training this quarter, with a total of 24 (3 female and 21 male) completing the modules on the Standing Order on Disasters (SOD), Disaster Management Act and the importance of community risk assessments (CRA) and Risk Reduction Action Plans (RRAP). Training for the 139 remaining UDMC members was put on hold due to national-level elections and has been rescheduled for Q2. To assist UDMCs to effectively carry out their government mandate, SAPLING has provided training on conducting CRAs and developing RRAPs to those in the 11 most vulnerable unions to disaster in the implementation zone. CRAs and RRAPs provide UDMCs with tools to increase transparency while at the same time address disaster-related needs at the community level. Cash for Work (CFW) projects provide an infusion of cash into the hands of those who need it the most, while also providing a public good in completing much needed community projects. A

Distribution of PPE and search & rescue equipment to the BDRCS volunteer where Assistant Deputy Commissioner (ADC-General), the Director of Youth & Volunteer of BDRCS Headquarter and Secretary General of Bandarban Unit presence; Photo: Shah Nawaj

A group picture of the UDMC member of Thanchi Upazila after completion of two-day long DRM Training at Bandarban on November 28, 2018; Photo Credit -Simon Amlai



total of 16 CFW projects were prioritized by the UDMCs, drawing from the RRAPs. Coordination with key stakeholders and operational tasks such as procurement of necessary materials and the drafting an MOU with bKash for mobile payment were completed in this quarter. Field level implementation of CFW projects will start in early Q2. Support in Functioning of Upazila and Pourosova DMCs: Throughout the quarter, SAPLING continued to support Upazila DMC (UzDMC) meetings in the upazilas of Ruma, Lama, Rowangchari, Bandarban Sadar and Thanchi. A total of six meetings took place during this quarter where a total of 107 UzDMC members (100 male and 7 female) participated. However, attendance was less than in previous quarters due to vacancies in upazila-based GOB positions. Similarly, SAPLING assisted the two Pourosova DMCs (PDMC) to organize and facilitate monthly meetings. PDMCs discussed preparedness activities for cyclone season, especially heavy rainfall which may cause landslides. A total of 25 PDMC members participated (4 female and 21 male). The national election also impacted the number in attendance. Supported Urban Community Volunteer (UCV) periodic meeting: SAPLING is providing support for sustainable response mechanisms in urban areas through the UCV network. In FY18, SAPLING supported the Fire Service and Civil Defense (FSCD) to form a total of 18 UCV groups and train them on Fire Fighting, First Aid and basic Search and Rescue. In this reporting quarter, SAPLING supported the FSCD to conduct quarterly meetings in Lama and Bandarban municipalities with a total of 58 UCVs (34 male and 24 female). In the meetings, previous training content was reviewed along with practical sessions, and an action plan for simulation on fighting fires was developed for the upcoming quarter. International Day for Disaster Reduction 2018 Since 1989, International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) has been observed in October worldwide. SAPLING observed the day with District and Upazila DMCs in all five Upazilas, supporting the GOB theme of “Reducing the Economic Loss of Disasters.” SAPLING supported the government IDDR program by organizing an art competition, rally and discussion sessions and participated at district, upazila and school level events. IDDR

Quarterly Review Meeting with UCV facilitated by FSCD, Bandarban on December 23, 2018; Photo: FSCD Staff

Mr Thowai Nue Aung Chaowdhury, Upazila Chairman & Chairperson of Lama Upazila DMC delivering speech as chief guest in the discussion session on IDDR 2018 at Lama on October 13, 2018; Photo: Monika Roy



focused on two main objectives: (i) creating mass awareness for effective preparedness; and, (ii) participating in GOB and NGO efforts by building linkages and increasing coordination. Public rallies followed by discussion sessions were organized with Bandarban District DMC and Lama Upazila administration. BDRCS volunteers and UCVs supported activities in their respective areas. A total of 766 people (360 female and 406 males) participated.

SECTION 2: CROSSCUTTING ISSUES 2.1 Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E)

During the first quarter of FY19, key monitoring and evaluation (M&E) activities were undertaken including iSTREAM customization, digital muster roll generation, local capacity building on geographic information systems (GIS), a geospatial validation workshop, landslide modeling, a review of the theory of change, planning for FY19 and preparation of reports, including the FY18 ARR and Annual Progress Report for the GOB. The MTE process also continued during this reporting quarter. SAPLING's MTE was initiated in the last quarter of FY18, with fieldwork ending in early October. Prior to departure from country, debriefings were conducted by the MTE team with field staff at the Bandarban district level, senior SAPLING partner staff and USAID Bangladesh. The draft report was shared with SAPLING and USAID in November, followed by a presentation of findings by the MTE team lead in USAID Washington. The semifinal report was submitted in December 2018 and will be finalized once feedback from USAID is received. To support the collection of high quality, timely data, a refresher training on Routine Participant Survey methods was provided to Union Supervisors and Upazila M&E Officers in December along with survey samples. A total of 26 Union Supervisors and five Upazila M&E Officers participated in the training. SAPLING has been providing support to the GIS lab under the Department of Geography and Environment at the University of Dhaka to develop a geospatial model for disaster prediction in Bandarban district. A national validation workshop for a landslide probability model was held in coordination with the University of Dhaka. This model could serve as a prototype for other disaster prediction in the CHT or for other areas of the country. Nineteen national-level



geospatial professionals from the Ministry of the Environment, Forest and Climate Change, the Ministry of Land and Geological Survey and other important stakeholders attended. In FY18, two GIS modules were developed by the University of Dhaka under the MOU with SAPLING. In the first quarter of FY19, two geospatial trainings were conducted on Advanced GIS and Remote Sensing by the Dhaka University-GIS lab. These maps can help to describe geographic vulnerabilities for

targeting interventions. A total of 12 participants attended, including government officials, university professors and students, I/NGO organizations and GIS personnel. 2.2 Local Capacity Building

Implementing Partners In Q1 SAPLING organized training on fraud, conflict of interest and human trafficking for 111 participants who were either newly hired or had missed earlier trainings (50 male and 32 female). Participants included Union Supervisors, FFs, Field Implementation Coordinators, SILC Officers and a Gender Officer.



In Q1, three Grants Specialists and four implementing partner (IP) staff attended a training on Professional Value Added Tax (VAT) and Tax Management at the Bangladesh Institute of Management to enable finance staff to calculate tax deducted at source and value added tax deducted at source during payments, strengthening compliance with GOB law.

Local NGOs In response to the GOB request to build capacity of local NGOs, SAPLING is implementing a two-phase organizational capacity building program with six local NGOs. The first phase, which was completed in FY18, involved conducting joint institutional assessments and training partner staff in critical areas including USAID regulations, internal controls, finance, administration and procurement and HR. The second phase involves learning-by-doing through implementation of small projects under Fixed Amount Awards (FAAs). In Q1, SAPLING met with the six local NGOs to explain the process, including FAA procedures, setting milestones, payment procedures, geographical target areas, eligibility and application.

Following the MTE recommendation, the grants and finance team and the FAA Coordinator conducted an organizational assessment to review Internal Control Improvement Plan (ICIP) status. One of the major objectives of these visits was to identify targeted training requirements to further build capacity of local NGO staff.

Learning Corps Fellows (LCF) LCFs are young adults from the region seeking job experience and capacity development. SAPLING’s fourth recruitment of LCFs has been initiated. Selection and onboarding will be completed in Q2. In Q1, three LCFs received jobs in the NGO sector totaling 17 of 64 LCF placed to date. LCF exit interviews consistently state that the LCF program is a unique opportunity to build professional skills. In Q1, a reflection session for the second and third LCF groups was organized with a total of 33 participants (21 male, 12 female). These sessions allow space to discuss program strengths and

Training on fraud, Conflict of Interest and human trafficking on 9-11 Dec’18. Photo Credit - Thui sha ching Marma

Certificate awarded to Ms. A A May, Finance Officer, GRAUS, by Course Coordinator at Bangladesh Institute of Management on 23-27 December. Photo credit - Kyaw Hla Sen



weaknesses, with the objective of improving the program by incorporating learnings from LCFs’ experiences. As part of their professional development, training on Microsoft Office was provided by SAPLING ITC staff for 32 LCF (15 male, 17 female) and a Code of Conduct training by HR Manager was provided for 30 LCF (14 male, 16 female). 2.3 Monetization of Commodities

SAPLING continued to follow up with the different GOB ministries and offices to receive monetization proceeds for the two shipments of 10,230 metric tons (MT) and 8,430 MTs for which SAPLING had previously submitted invoices. In December 2018, SAPLING received monetization proceeds of USD 3,388,447.23 (BDT 283,782,455.33) from the 10,230 MT shipment. In accordance with the terms and conditions related to the sale of commodities to the GOB as outlined in the Host Country Agreement, SAPLING received the funds in local currency, i.e. in BDT. 2.4 Coordination and External Relations

USAID Team visit to SAPLING

SAPLING hosted a field visit by USAID/Bangladesh to six paras in the upazilas of Thanchi, Bandarban Sadar and Rowangchari. The delegation was led by Paul Mason, Director, Office of Food, Disaster and Humanitarian Assistance (OFDHA), USAID/Dhaka, who was accompanied by Teffera Betru, Deputy Director, OFDHA, USAID/Dhaka, Shahnaz Zakaria, Senior Advisor, OFDHA, USAID/Dhaka, Timothy Ong, Program Officer, Office of Programs and Mahmuda Rahman Khan, Program Development Specialist, Office of Programs. The purpose of the visit was to examine the progress that SAPLING has made by interviewing participants engaged in IEHFP, IGA, SILC, aquaculture, MCHN and DRR activities. Participants discussed how they are increasing and/or utilizing knowledge, and using improved techniques, skills and asset support from SAPLING, as well as areas where they felt additional assistance was needed. The visit also allowed the members of the team to understand the challenges faced by participants and program staff, and how these might affect implementation and achievement of program objectives. The USAID team visited MCHN activities including a Little Doctor’s activity at Thowaigya Para Primary School and also participated in meetings with MCHN group participants and Red Crescent Youth Volunteers.



2.5 Grants and Finance

Sub-grant monitoring on a monthly or quarterly basis in accordance with the established schedule was undertaken in Q1 with Caritas and GRAUS. Due to the elections some visits were postponed and will be conducted in the beginning of Q2. Monitoring visits involve reviewing invoices, vouchers, time sheets, financial reports, bank reconciliations, bank statements, fixed asset registers and updated staff lists. After each monitoring visit, reports are produced and submitted to the respective institution for corrective action and/or management responses. 2.6 Communications

In Q1, SAPLING undertook a rapid assessment to understand the effectiveness of the five disaster preparedness billboards located outside the entrance/exit to each upazila. The billboards include a graphic design which depicts HHs enacting preparedness practices with the following messages:

Early warning information can help save lives and assets Call 1090 for early warning information (GOB-supported service)

IEHFP group members explaining the procedures of making organic fertilizer to the USAID delegation at Senior Para

USAID delegation with the “Little Doctor” at Thowaingya Para Primary School

USAID delegation performing the Bawm traditional Bamboo Dance



Discussion sessions with stakeholders from four communities were held to obtain feedback on the billboards to improve effectiveness of size, image, location, etc. This feedback will be incorporated into future billboard messaging. The next set of billboards will be displayed in the coming quarter with messages promoting year-round food production to improve nutrition. A festoon on the four different food groups promoted by SAPLING was developed and utilized during Little Doctor sessions.

CHALLENGES AND LESSONS LEARNED Members of DMCs, the BDRCS, WATSAN committees and other community groups

were heavily engaged in the national election which delayed several activities. Staff turnover, particularly senior technical staff has accelerated with several large-scale

projects beginning in the CHT and Rohingya response on-going, recruiting trained SAPLING staff away from the project.

Building local suppliers from the bottom up (i.e. papaya sapling producers and mini-hatcheries) serves local market needs and increases income and human capital.

Priority Activities for Quarter 2 Conduct group sessions under IEHFP, IGA, MCHN and DRR Form and train SILC groups Advocate with GOB and UDMC to include the most vulnerable in safety-net schemes Train new Union, Upazila and Pourosova DMC members on Disaster Management Act,

SOD and the importance of CRA and RRAP Initiate 16 CFW activities Initiate mobile ANC/PNC services Conduct bi-monthly refresher and session delivery training for CHSWs Complete knowledge assessment on remaining CHSWs Develop and incorporate key Early Childhood Development messages and activities into

MCHN sessions for PLW Conduct training for WASH entrepreneurs Conduct water point management training, including use of the SILC to the 65 WUCs Rehabilitate 35 water supply sources Strengthen capacity of 15 DPHE Mechanics Refine IP and Local NGO ICIPs Award FAAs for improved food security- Phase II of local capacity building initiative Revise M&E plan including the Theory of Change Conduct iSTREAM training for field staff

Quarterly Performance Report October – December 2018

Documents

Transcript of Quarterly Performance Report October – December 2018