This was a part of Motorola, Inc. and CARE's new relationship to provide mission-critical technology in some of the most remote parts of the world. Motorola will work with CARE field staff and communities to install and use these high-grade, commercial quality radio communication systems.

These equipments are worth Taka 12, 170,000 (US$200,000) and include portable radios, base stations, repeaters, accessories and other necessary devices for the installation of the radio, communications equipment in the selected sites.

The radio communications system is designed to provide CARE Bangladesh with radio coverage over Kurigram one of the districts under CARE's SHOUHARDO (Strengthening Household Ability of Responding to Development Opportunities) program that commenced in October 2004. This radio equipment sponsorship will provide communications tools for CARE field workers in the Kurigram district as well as positively impact seven sub-districts, 480 villages, and almost 282,000 people living in areas affected by the annual floods.

"When annual monsoon rains flood villages in Bangladesh, poor communities have traditionally depended on word-of-mouth to communicate their need for life-saving assistance. By the time their message gets through, it is often too late," said Steve Wallace, country director, CARE Bangladesh. "Motorola's support through the sponsorship of radio equipment will provide vital communication links for the people who need it most."

Installing these radio communication devices will help CARE field staff, communities and evacuation boat crew gain quicker access to flood information, and mobilise more quickly to save lives and reduce the effects of floods.

Until now, field staff and remote communities have relied primarily on courier or postal services, which are inefficient and often not able to function during a natural disaster. CARE works with over 1,000 Bangladeshi communities in flood-proofing villages and roadways, and strengthening food and economic security of poor households.

Abdul Moin Khan, Science and ICT Minister said that the wide availability of radio devices in the market may not be a threat. As a matter of fact, these devices can be useful in maintaining household security. He appreciated Motorola's generous gesture admitted that these communication devices may work as life savers.

Jack Yap, director of distribution, Commercial, Government and Industrial Solutions Sector (CGISS), South Asia handed over the radio communication devices to Steve Wallace.

"Motorola's relationship with CARE is designed to link previously isolated communities to the outside world and help save lives. This is an excellent opportunity for us to use our expertise in radio communications and make a significant contribution to the community," said Phey Teck Moh, vice president, Motorola Asia Pacific.

Motorola will be working with Skyways Techno Services, its local partner, to provide engineering services for the installation of the radio system across all seven radio sites.