Women Leading Coastal Resilience Against Climate Adversity

Jorina Begum, a resident of Charfesson Upazila in the southern part of Bangladesh, lives in a region that constantly faces the wrath of nature. Her husband, a farmer, struggles to maintain crop production and a stable income amidst the frequent climate disasters that batter their community. 

Despite these economic challenges, Jorina’s dedication and commitment to her community shine brightly, particularly during times of crisis. 

In 2018, Jorina took a significant step toward serving her community by joining the Cyclone Preparedness Program (CPP). She received training in foundational skills and shelter management, with a special emphasis on the crucial role women play when there is a disaster. 

Equipped with the necessary tools, Jorina became a pivotal figure in her community, raising awareness about cyclones and guiding women to shelters. In 2023, a collaboration between the Adaptation Initiative for Climate Vulnerable Offshore Small Islands and Riverine Charland in Bangladesh Project of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) funded by the Adaptation Fund and the CPP further bolstered Jorina's capabilities.

Under this collaboration, Jorina received training on advanced leadership, first aid, disaster preparedness, and search and rescue training. This partnership aimed to enhance climate resilience in the coastal areas of Bhola District. 

After that, Jorina experienced several major cyclones like Fani, Bulbul, Amphan, Sitrang, and Mocha. During the recent cyclone Remal in May 2024, she emerged as a leader. When the cyclone was approaching, Jorina took immediate action. 

She educated her neighbours on the importance of preserving dry food and securing safe water supplies. As the storm grew closer, she raised the warning flags and tirelessly went door-to-door, informing residents of the impending danger.

Not only that, Jorina also played a crucial role during evacuation by helping elderly people, persons with disabilities, women, and children reach shelter houses. She also recognized the unique needs of women and children, setting up breastfeeding corners to provide them with special support.

Even after the cyclone, Jorina remained active, ensuring a safe return for all from the shelters back to their homes and assisting in the rehabilitation efforts.

Jorina Begum's story is one of resilience, leadership, and commitment to her community. Despite facing countless challenges, she continues to stand as a beacon of hope and strength for those around her.

Bangladesh's vulnerability to climate change is starkly evident, with its low-lying delta terrain and frequent natural disasters posing significant challenges. Small island communities, isolated by rivers and seas, face relentless disruptions to their lives and livelihoods. 

Recognising this pressing issue, the UNDP, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, initiated a project in 2019 focused on these small islands. The project's goal is to address and mitigate the vulnerabilities of these communities, providing crucial support and resilience in the face of an ever-increasing climate threat.