Agrilife24.com:Solidaridad Network Asia, in collaboration with key agricultural institutions and the private sector, celebrated the formal inauguration of the Chargazi Soybean Producers Somobay Somity Ltd., a farmer-owned cooperative, on 24 July 2025 in Ramgati Upazila, Lakshmipur. The event marked a significant milestone in empowering smallholder soybean farmers through collective production, improved market access, and value-added entrepreneurship.
The cooperative, comprising 2,710 soybean producers from Chargazi cluster, is a strategic initiative under Solidaridad’s “Pathway to Prosperity” and “Improving Prosperity and Sustainability of Bangladesh Feed and Oil Industry through Soybean Farming” projects. Funded by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs and HSBC Bangladesh, the projects aim to enhance the livelihoods of 85,854 farmers across Noakhali and Lakshmipur by promoting climate-resilient soybean varieties, mechanization, and inclusive agribusiness models.
The newly formed Chargazi Soybean Producers Cooperative aims to become a market-oriented business platform. It focuses on quality seed production, climate-smart farming practices, and value-added soybean products. The cooperative will also foster strategic partnerships with food processors, nutrition programs, and market actors to expand utilization and create local employment opportunities.
Key Achievements Highlighted at the Event:
- Yield Increase: Adoption of 8 high-yielding, saline-tolerant soybean varieties (e.g., BU Soybean-1, BINA Soybean-5) has boosted average production from 1.97 MT/ha to 3.05 MT/ha since 2023, with a 25–30-day reduction in crop cycles.
- Mechanization Gains: Use of Power Tiller Operator Seeders (PTOS) reduced sowing costs by 30% and increased yields by 30–35%, addressing labor shortages.
- Women’s Empowerment: Development of 46 female seed entrepreneurs and 10 soy value-added food entrepreneurs, linking them to national markets.
- Market Linkages: Partnerships with Nourish Agro Ltd. and public-sector agencies ensure fair pricing and demand-driven supply chains.
Dignitaries’ Remarks
Mr. Zahir Ahmed, Deputy Director, Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), as Chief Guest, commended Solidaridad’s efforts:
“This cooperative model exemplifies how collective action can transform smallholder farming into a sustainable enterprise. By integrating technology, diversified markets, and gender inclusivity, it aligns with Bangladesh’s vision for agricultural resilience.”
“Our focus is to bridge the gap between farmers and markets while fostering local entrepreneurship. The cooperative will drive seed sovereignty, nutrition security, and climate-smart practices in coastal regions.”
Future Roadmap
The cooperative aims to:
- Strengthen seed systems via certified seed production and women-led enterprises.
- Expand value-added products (e.g., soy-based foods) for national markets.
- Leverage partnerships with processors, nutrition programs, and financial institutions.
The ceremony was attended by Md. Shahidul Islam (DAE Noakhali), Md. Mozibur Rahman (UAO, Ramgati), Md. Omar Faruk (Cooperative Officer), and Md. Mizanur Rahman (Youth Development Officer), alongside farmers and private-sector representatives. The ceremony was moderated by Md. Farhad Hossain, Assistant Manager–Supply Chain,
Solidaridad is an international civil society organization fostering inclusive supply chains across Asia. In Bangladesh, it works with farmers, industries, and governments to promote sustainable agriculture, fair trade, and livelihood improvement.
