By Subir Kumar Sarker, Shyamel Hasda, and Alpana Sarker from Ghior, Manikganj
The farmers and women of Shatobari village in Manta Madhyapara, Putail Union of Manikganj Sadar upazila, along with the Manta Madhyapara Women’s Organization, organized a fair on eco-friendly oven and chicken coops (Hajol) as part of local adaptation strategies. The event was supported by BARCIK.
At the fair, 35 women farmers showcased various locally made ovens crafted from alluvial clay, such as Chabna oven, Padma oven, Three-Tala oven, Three-Jhik oven, Bondhu oven, Jhik-less oven, and Toy oven. According to them, these oven produce less smoke and save fuel. The participating women also discussed the benefits of environment-friendly oven.
Manta Women’s Organization President Renu Begum, General Secretary Beauty Akter, BARCIK Program Officer Subir Kumar Sarker, BARCIK Research Officer Shyamel Hasda, Alpana Rani Sarker, and farmers from Shatbari village participated in the event.
During the discussion, Beauty Akter said, “We make these ovens during the Bengali months of Baishakh and Jyoishtho using alluvial clay collected from rivers and canals. This allows us to move and use them easily during the rainy season.” Renu Begum added, “We make these ovens ourselves. They produce less smoke, use less fuel, and cause less harm to our eyes.”
After the discussion, Renu Begum gave a practical demonstration on how to build a Hajol (chicken coop). She explained that with a Hajol, hens can hatch eggs successfully and do not need to go outside for food while incubating. Eleven more women from the village also mentioned that they have started making such coops.
