Grameen Bank has launched a nationwide programme to plant 1 crore trees as part of its Golden Jubilee celebrations, with the initiative aimed at combating climate change and protecting the environment.
Grameen Bank began its journey in 1976 as a small microcredit project in Jobra village of Chattogram, with the goal of breaking the chains of social subjugation and addressing the country’s economic crisis through women’s empowerment, reads a press release.
Over the past five decades, the institution has overcome numerous challenges and become a symbol of trust for crores of people.
The tree plantation programme was inaugurated on Saturday at the Mahipur branch under Kalapara in Patuakhali Zone, the country’s southernmost district.
Abdul Hannan Chowdhury, chairman of Grameen Bank, inaugurated the programme as the chief guest.
Managing Director Sarder Akhter Hamed, Company Secretary Abdus Sabur Md Baquis, zonal manager, area manager and local dignitaries were also present.
Abdul Hannan said, “Fifty years ago, Grameen Bank started a war against poverty; today we have entered a war against climate change. Planting 1 crore trees is not just a number, it is our green gift to the future generation on our Golden Jubilee.”
Akhter Hamed said, “The half-century journey of Grameen Bank is a journey of fulfilling people’s dreams. Through the tree plantation program, we want to make the country climate-resilient, along with ensuring nutrition and economic security for the family of each of our members.”
Distribution of fruit-bearing, timber and medicinal saplings among members is currently underway in a festive atmosphere at 2,528 Grameen Bank branches across the country.
The tree plantation programme in homesteads and open spaces will continue throughout the year.
