“Inclusive Stakeholder Engagement for Climate Resilience: Lessons from Satkhira and Tangail”
In reflecting on stakeholder engagement in complex projects like climate resilience initiatives, especially in the context of shrimp cultivation in Satkhira, several lessons stand out.
1. Effective strategies for stakeholder identification and mapping:Tools like stakeholder matrices and power vs. interest maps have been particularly useful. In Satkhira, stakeholders include shrimp farmers, local communities, NGOs supporting sustainable aquaculture, local government authorities, and buyers/exporters. Mapping them based on their influence (e.g., funding, policy-making) and benefit (direct impact of climate events or project outcomes) helps prioritize engagement and tailor strategies to each group.
2. Role of negotiation and communication:Conflicting interests are common—for instance, some shrimp farmers may prioritize short-term profits, while NGOs emphasize sustainable practices to protect mangroves and water quality. Negotiation and clear communication allow stakeholders to understand each other’s perspectives, identify trade-offs, and agree on solutions that balance economic needs with environmental sustainability. Regular meetings and community workshops have proven effective in Satkhira for aligning goals.
3. Best practices for inclusive and sustainable collaboration:Inclusivity requires actively engaging all relevant voices, including women, small-scale farmers, and marginalized groups who are often most affected by climate impacts. One practice in Satkhira has been forming community committees where local women shrimp farmers participate in decision-making about water management and shrimp pond practices. This not only improves trust and transparency but also ensures that solutions are locally accepted and sustainable over time.
In Tangail, one effective practice for inclusive stakeholder engagement has been the formation of local farming committees. These committees include smallholder farmers, women farmers, and community leaders, who meet regularly to discuss issues related to irrigation, crop planning, and climate resilience measures. For example, during the monsoon season, the committee collectively decides on water management strategies to prevent flooding of fields and protect crop yields. By involving women and marginalized farmers in decision-making, these committees ensure that all voices are heard, conflicts are minimized, and solutions are accepted and sustainable at the community level. This practice has strengthened trust among stakeholders and improved collaboration between farmers, local NGOs, and government officials.
Overall, successful stakeholder engagement combines careful mapping, open communication, and inclusive practices to ensure that projects are effective, equitable, and resilient.