Program 1

The Socio Economic Development Program aims to enhance the socio-economic status of marginalized and vulnerable communities in Bangladesh by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities, improving access to essential services, and fostering inclusive economic growth. This program focuses on sustainable livelihoods, access to essential services, inclusive economic growth, equity and inclusion, and building community capacity.

Key expected outcomes include increased household income, reduced community unemployment, enhanced skills and education, improved access to financial services, the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and improved food security and nutritional status for the community.

Horticulture and Resilient Livelihoods

Shushilan integrates climate-resilient horticulture into its agro-ecological programming to address food insecurity, nutrition gaps, and livelihood vulnerability among forest-dependent and climate-affected communities. Saline-tolerant fruit trees (e.g., guava, sofeda, citrus), vegetables, and medicinal plants are promoted through homestead and community gardens, often combined with livestock rearing, aquaculture, and value-chain development.

These horticultural systems are designed to function within agroforestry and CSA frameworks, enabling households—especially women—to generate income while reducing pressure on mangrove forests. Complemented by entrepreneurship development, market linkages, and alternative income-generating activities such as beekeeping, crab fattening, and eco-friendly enterprises, Shushilan's horticulture interventions contribute directly to sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience in ecologically critical areas.