Bangladesh‍‍`s first cancer care village ‍‍`Alok Boshoti‍‍` opens

Bangladesh Cancer Aid Trust (BANCAT) has inaugurated the country’s first-ever Cancer Care Village, "Alok Boshoti," marking a significant milestone in cancer care. The announcement was made at the ‍‍`Philanthropy Conclave 2025 – Fostering a Care Economy,‍‍` jointly organized 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 initiative aims to provide comprehensive residential care for cancer patients.

Alok Boshoti, a 250-bed hospice and palliative care center, will offer free treatment, mental health support, spiritual care, and cancer screening facilities. Designed with sustainability in mind, the project integrates solar energy and organic farming. The five-phase implementation, spanning 37 months, is expected to serve over 5,000 patients annually.

The event was attended by notable figures, including 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; and Runa Khan, Founder and Executive Director of Friendship.

Sharmeen S Murshid underscored the importance of collective efforts in building a care economy, emphasizing that community support and private sector involvement are crucial alongside government initiatives. Zahida Fizza Kabir stressed the need for fair wages and policies to transform unpaid caregiving into sustainable work.

Nazmus Ahmed Albab described Alok Boshoti as a symbol of hope, ensuring affordable and dignified care for all cancer patients. BANCAT, a non-profit organization, continues to work towards cancer prevention, education, and treatment, focusing on three core areas: nationwide cancer awareness, holistic care for underserved cancer patients, and mental wellness support.

The conclave brought together representatives from the government, non-profits, businesses, and civil society to discuss the collective impact of philanthropy on sustainable development and healthcare. A panel discussion titled “Embracing Welfare Initiatives” explored innovative approaches to charitable contributions, further highlighting the need for collaborative efforts in the healthcare sector.