BANCAT unveils first cancer care village to support patients

The Bangladesh Cancer Aid Trust (BANCAT) has introduced the country's first Cancer Care Village, "Alok Boshoti," aiming to provide residential care for cancer patients.

The initiative was announced at the 'Philanthropy Conclave 2025 – Fostering a Care Economy,' hosted by BANCAT and Valor of Bangladesh at The Westin Dhaka.

Supported by Mutual Trust Bank, Sajida Foundation, Seven Rings Cement, and Abdur Rahim Memorial Trust, the 250-bed facility is designed as a hospice and palliative care center. It will offer free treatment, mental health support, spiritual care, and cancer screening.

The eco-friendly project integrates solar energy and organic farming, with implementation planned in five phases over 37 months. Upon completion, it is expected to serve over 5,000 patients annually.

Sharmeen S Murshid, Advisor to the Ministry of Women and Children Affairs and the Ministry of Social Welfare; Nazmus Ahmed Albab, Executive Director of BANCAT; Syed Mahbubur Rahman, Managing Director and CEO of Mutual Trust Bank; Zahida Fizza Kabir, CEO of Sajida Foundation; Runa  Khan, Founder and Executive Director of Friendship, along with other senior officials from various organisations attended the programme.

"The care economy is not solely the government's responsibility. It requires a united approach where community support, skilled workforce development, and empathy from private organizations work hand-in-hand to bring about real change," said Sharmeen S Murshid.

Zahida Fizza Kabir, CEO of Sajida Foundation, emphasized the economic value of caregiving. "A sustainable care economy values unpaid caregiving by turning it into paid work, with fair wages and supportive policies," she said.

Nazmus Ahmed Albab, Executive Director of BANCAT, described the project as a milestone in Bangladesh's cancer care system. "Alok Boshoti symbolizes hope for cancer patients, ensuring affordable and dignified care for all," he said.

BANCAT, a nonprofit focused on cancer prevention, education, and patient support, continues to advance its mission to reduce suffering and raise awareness. The conclave featured discussions on philanthropy's role in sustainable development, with experts exploring welfare-driven initiatives.

The conclave gathered representatives from the government, nonprofit sector, business community, and civil society to discuss the collective impact of philanthropic initiatives, the care economy, and sustainable development in Bangladesh. A vibrant panel discussion titled "Embracing Welfare Initiatives" took place, where experts shared their insights and explored innovative approaches to charitable contributions.