Finance Adviser Dr. Salehuddin Ahmed has raised concerns about the effectiveness of investments in many of Bangladesh’s development projects, pointing to a growing disconnect between project funding and actual outcomes.
Speaking at a seminar jointly organized by the Economic Relations Division (ERD) and the New Development Bank (NDB) at Hotel InterContinental in Dhaka today, Dr. Ahmed called for stronger accountability, transparency, and governance in public investment.
“We often do not see returns that justify the level of investment made in development projects,” he said. “There is a need for audits and participatory evaluations to ensure the effective use of public funds.”
Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of social audits—especially in donor-funded initiatives—where local communities are informed about project details such as objectives, budgets, timelines, and scopes. “People have the right to know what is being done with public money,” he noted, adding that auditors must be both well-prepared and vigilant to prevent manipulation.
He outlined three pillars for improved governance: accountability, transparency, and principled policy making. “Evaluation, auditing, and compliance are the tools that ensure policies and projects are not just on paper but deliver real benefits to citizens,” he said.
The seminar focused on enhancing integrity, accountability, and evaluation among development project leaders—elements deemed critical to sustaining Bangladesh’s growth momentum. The event also highlighted the deepening partnership between Bangladesh and the NDB, which Bangladesh joined in 2021 as its first non-BRICS member.
ERD Secretary Md. Shahriar Kader Siddiky stressed the importance of learning from global best practices while tailoring them to the local context. “Engagements like these allow for meaningful dialogue and knowledge exchange,” he said.
Henrique Pissaia, Principal Professional Specialist at the NDB, noted that the seminar reaffirmed the role of accountability and evaluation in improving project outcomes. “More rigorous monitoring of ongoing projects in Bangladesh will help ensure better returns,” he said.
The NDB reiterated its commitment to supporting Bangladesh, particularly in financing infrastructure and sustainable development projects aligned with national priorities.