Baseline Study for “Strengthening Community Preparedness, Rapid Response, and Recovery in Bangladesh”

Baseline Study for “Strengthening Community Preparedness, Rapid Response, and Recovery in Bangladesh”

Client: Oxfam in Bangladesh
Client Contact Information:

• Name: Rifat Farzana Sumi
• Title: Senior MEAL Officer
• Address: House No. 23, Road No. 28, Block K, Banani, Dhaka-1213, Bangladesh
• Cell: +8801313-484546
• Email: RSumi@oxfam.org.uk

Duration: July 2024 – September 2024
Location: 12 Communities in Barishal, Gaibandha, and Barguna Districts, Bangladesh

Project Overview:
Commissioned by Oxfam in Bangladesh under the ACT II project, this initiative aimed to strengthen the disaster preparedness, response, and recovery capacities of 12 disaster-prone communities in Barishal, Gaibandha, and Barguna districts. The project focused on building resilience by empowering Union Disaster Management Committees (UDMCs) and fostering collaboration between government and non-government entities. Targeting vulnerable groups such as women, youth, and people with disabilities, the project promoted inclusivity and sustainability in disaster management practices, aligning with national disaster frameworks.

Services Provided by ART Lab:
Advanced Research Thoughts Lab Ltd. (ART Lab) conducted a comprehensive baseline study to assess existing capacities, gaps, and areas for improvement. Key activities included:

1. Document Review and Planning:
   • Reviewed national disaster frameworks and project documentation.
   • Developed a robust mixed-method study design.
2. Tool Development and Testing:
   • Designed reliable survey tools for household data collection.
   • Conducted pilot testing to ensure validity.
3. Quantitative Data Collection:
   • Conducted surveys with 270 respondents across Barishal, Gaibandha, and Barguna.
   • Gathered data on disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and community participation.
4. Qualitative Data Collection:
   • Facilitated 12 Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with community members and stakeholders.
   • Conducted 12 In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) with UDMC members and other key participants.
   • Completed 6 Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) with UzDMC representatives and civil society members.
5. Field Inspections and Observations:
   • Evaluated disaster preparedness initiatives, such as food banks, fodder banks, and plinth raising.
   • Assessed inclusivity and representation within UDMCs.
6. Data Analysis and Reporting:
   • Analyzed quantitative data using statistical software (Stata 17.0).
   • Conducted thematic analysis of qualitative data to identify key trends.
   • Prepared a detailed baseline study report, highlighting findings, gaps, and actionable recommendations.
7. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Organized workshops to present preliminary findings and gather feedback.
   • Incorporated stakeholder input to refine and finalize the report.
8. Recommendations and Strategic Insights:
   • Suggested strategies to improve UDMC effectiveness and inclusivity.
   • Recommended enhancements to early warning systems and financial resilience in target communities.

Consultant List:

• Md. Ekhtekharul Islam – Team Leader
• Rumana Ali – Gender Expert

Key Personnel from ART Lab:

• Md. Maksud-Ul Hasan – Chairman
• Md. Tauhidur Rahman – Vice-Chairman
• Md. Zahirul Islam – Managing Director

Impact:
This baseline study provided a solid foundation for future disaster management interventions by identifying community-specific needs and areas for improvement. The project emphasized inclusivity, sustainability, and community-driven solutions, ensuring its alignment with the needs of the most vulnerable populations. This project highlights ART Lab’s commitment to delivering high-quality research that strengthens community resilience and disaster preparedness in Bangladesh.