Estimating the Impacts of the Jamuna Bridge on Poverty Levels in Bangladesh using SAM and CGE Models: A Comparative Study
September 25, 2004
Wider Impacts of Microfinance Institutions: Issues and Concepts
December 1, 2004

Food Aid Distribution in Bangladesh: Leakage and Operational Performance

Akhter U. Ahmed, Shahidur Rashid, Manohar Sharma, and Sajjad Zohir

International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI)

Donors support a number of targeted food-based programs in Bangladesh that are widely credited with providing poor people access to food and improving their food security. However, inefficiency in the food distribution system may be hindering the realization of the full benefits of these programs. The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) conducted a comprehensive study of the efficiency of food distribution in food aid-supported programs in Bangladesh.

The study has three components: (1) food discharge at harbors, (2) the public food distribution system, and (3) food distribution to program beneficiaries. The capacity and efficiency of the food distribution system was assessed from entry ports to targeted beneficiaries. The study identified problems in the whole food distribution system, determined the level of losses, leakages, and other lapses at various stages, and recommended solutions.

Read More 3780