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30 November 2022
Timor-Leste to host WHO’s regional meeting on family planning and comprehensive abortion care
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28 November 2022
Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement Global Coordinator Gerda Verburg arrives in Timor-Leste to discuss progress and advocate for improved nutrition
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16 November 2022
Timor-Leste: Targeting soil transmitted infection, one deworming tablet at a time
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The Sustainable Development Goals in Timor-Leste
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Timor-Leste:
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24 June 2022
ASPIRING TO MAKE A 'BIG LEAP' IN TIMOR-LESTE'S DEVELOPMENT: THE VITAL ROLE OF GENDER EQUALITY AND WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT AND WHY WE NEED TO ACT NOW!
Since the restoration of independence on 20 May 2002, Timor-Leste has made considerable progress on socio-cultural, political and economic rights. However, the post-COVID-recovery in the wake of higher food and energy prices caused by the war in Ukraine has compounded existing gender inequalities making it imperative to centre stage women and girls to build back better. It is also clear that the country needs to maximise all its resources (human, financial, environmental and knowledge) and assets to achieve better outcomes for all, including children, the LGBTIQ persons, the elderly, and the disabled.
Despite a strong commitment to equality in Timor-Leste, violence against women and girls (VAWG) remains pervasive, with estimates from 38% to 59% of women experiencing violence in their lifetime. The 2019 Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) indicates that the VAWG is a significant structural barrier to the country's development. In his inauguration speech, newly-elected HE President Jose Ramos Horta emphasised the importance of gender equality and women's empowerment as a fundamental prerequisite for inclusive national development and building a resilient democracy.
Timor-Leste has already made significant progress in addressing inequalities through legislation, policy development, institutional mechanisms, and raised public awareness. The second National Action Plan on Gender-based Violence, pending approval from the Council of Ministers, commits to ending gender-based violence through a multi-sectoral, comprehensive and coordinated approach. The NAP GBV has been developed following the national laws and international commitments of the Convention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), the International Convention on the Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), the International Covenant on Social and Economic Rights (ICSER) and the Convention on the Rights of the Children (CRC). Timor-Leste has adopted the Women's Economic Empowerment Strategy and National Social Protection Policy as fundamental policies that complement women's agency. However, the national development plan (the SDP) recognises that more remains to be done and establishes several critical priorities.
Furthermore, the draft Second NAP GBV is supported by findings of an assessment from the preceding NAP, whereby more significant action is needed to audit the gendered impact of legislative changes on the development and well-being of women. Recognising women in their multiple and intersectional socio-economic and political identities is also imperative. It would be good to know, for example, the representation of women's voices in the design of the Cesta Basica programme, the $200 levy on poorer households, the push to reduce malnutrition in the country and the Bolsa de Mae Generation Foun.
While we are looking at how women's participation and empowerment can be further championed in Timor-Leste, we must build on the good progress that has been achieved. Currently, Timor-Leste has one of the highest rates of women parliamentarians in the world and the highest in the Asian/Pacific region. The President of the National Parliament promulgated a new Village (Suco) Law in July 2016 to have at least one woman per Suco as Suco Chief. We must ensure now that the upcoming elections leverage the momentum the country has built on to prepare communities, especially aspiring women representatives. For effective implementation of policies, further strengthening the capacity of the national women's machinery and various ministries are vital, as also emphasised through the recently revised National Action Plan of Gender-Based Violence (NAP GBV).
Violence against women and girls is one of the most widespread, persistent and devastating human rights violations today. It is a significant obstacle to fulfilling women's and girls' human rights and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The United Nations in Timor-Leste remains committed to working with the Government to address the long-term impact of the pandemic and addressing existing structural barriers to gender equality through multiple interventions, including EU-UN Spotlight Initiative and Equality for All initiatives, among others. Led by the Government and together with partners, we will continue responding to all forms of VAWG, with a particular focus on domestic and family violence, sexual and gender-based violence, harmful practices, femicide, trafficking, and all forms exploitation in line with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the principle of 'leaving no one behind.'
It would also be essential to acknowledge that gender inequality has deep socio-cultural roots and manifests in non-linear ways. Therefore, it will require a coordinated, comprehensive, multi-sectoral and lifecycle approach. Which essentially means a Whole of Government, womb to tomb approach.
It is time to consider setting up a National Women's Empowerment Fund with a 20-year plus timeline because the piecemeal approach has not worked so far. Additionally, we urgently need to focus on three key areas – implementation of legislation, social protection, and gender-responsive financing:
Laws are already there. Weaker implementation is a barrier. If the State is able to ensure the implementation of these laws, this will ultimately improve the protection of women and girls, leading to the upholding of women's rights.
A long-term social protection scheme will provide effective mechanisms to reduce the vulnerabilities of women and girls, leading to their empowerment and participation.
Gender-responsive budgeting is a critical part of the Public Financial Management agenda and will improve the social and economic situation of women and girls by ensuring a fair allocation of resources
With a gender-champion leadership at the helm of affairs in the country and in the context of Timor-Leste's bid for a bigger and better global repositioning and expansion of the economy, we have a historical opportunity to include women and girls in the much-needed sustainable economic diversification and leverage Timor-Leste's interest for regional integration, while leaving no woman and girl behind. If there was ever a better time to promote gender equality agendas and incorporate gender perspectives throughout the wide range of challenges we confront in Timor-Leste and the Pacific region, it is now!
-END-
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17 May 2022
UN RESIDENT COORDINATOR AND COUNTRY TEAM WISH TIMOR-LESTE 20TH ANNIVERSARY OF RESTORATION OF INDEPENDENCE
On behalf of the UN Country Team, I offer the warmest wishes on this momentous occasion.
Today’s anniversary marks another landmark in the productive and exemplary partnership between Timor-Leste and the United Nations. For more than two decades, the United Nations has worked side-by-side with the people of Timor-Leste, supporting the country’s efforts to build a strong and resilient State and promote sustainable peace and prosperity.
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10 May 2022
Solidarity to End Violence
Viqueque, Timor-Leste.
The two-day ‘Do No Harm’ workshop on ethical and safe approach when responding to cases of gender-based violence (GBV) was held on March 30, 31 in Viqueque, Timor-Leste. The ‘Do No Harm’ workshop aims to promote better understanding of the nature of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) which interlinks with mental health of the survivors, and supports local communities to adopt ‘Do No Harm’ approach, namely ethical and safe method when respond to cases of VAWG. The workshop has been conducted in three municipalities, Bobonaro, Ermera and Viqueque, lectured by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), local authorities and Justice Institutions that work closely on VAWG and GBV. At the seminar, the participants including school teachers and students are encouraged to share their experiences when dealing with GBV cases and survivors, and discuss about how they can improve local community to response and prevent the VAWG.
Irene Kobesi works as the PNTL (Policia National Timor-Leste) First Sergeant in Vulnerable Person Unit (VPU), supporting survivors of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG). She said “I participated in the ‘Do No Harm’ workshop, because, as a VPU officer, my duty is to protect women and girls.” At the workshop, interconnections between VAWG and mental health of the survivors were underlined to understand the wider perspective of VAWG: survivors are harmed not only when they received violence, but also when they receive indiscreet questions about the sexual violence during the judicial process.
https://youtu.be/ilSYHxHS7Cc
During the seminar, it was emphasized that people’s better understandings of VAWG and cooperation from local authorities are necessary to eliminate VAWG at the community level. Maria Odete do Amaral, a Chief of Village in Viqueque, stated “I really wanted to join this seminar because this is essential for me as a community leader. I can share what I learned in this seminar with my community, and those who experienced violence, mostly women and girls.” While “Prevention of domestic violence can start from family. If we have knowledge in VAWG, domestic violence can be prevented in the early stage. If we solve family issue with violence, our children never learn how to solve problem without violence” addressed by Jose Delima, a Coordinator of Public Defender.
In Timor-Leste, climate change also exacerbates cases of VAWG. In the interview, Irene shared her experience in the flash floods during March 29th -April 4th 2021, resulted in disastrous landslide that produced more than 15,000 internally displaced people right after the disaster. “Last year, we experienced the catastrophic flood. Some people were traumatized, because they didn’t have place to live, and experienced violence from their partners. We provided support to those who suffered from both flood and violence. If their houses are not safe to live, we contacted local authorities to provide them an emergency shelter.”
To respond and prevent VAWG, a bottom-up approach to adopt ‘Do No Harm’ at the community level is essential, because the causes of the violence are deeply connected to the social context of Timor-Leste. “Together, we can end violence against women and girls” concluded Irene.
By Fidelia Mendonca, Ayumi Kimura
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18 April 2022
Historical insights, sustainable and inclusive development: What they might mean for us now and for the future
An essential first step is perhaps to help people clearly define what type of national development people of Timor-Leste would like to see in their country
The United Nations is here to support the government and the people of Timor-Leste. The SDGs and 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development offer evidenced-based and solution-based directions for an inclusive, prosperous and sustainable future for all.
With the second round of the Presidential Elections imminent, it has been an interesting and exciting past week, thinking about now as well as the future of the country. Irrespective of the people’s decision for either of the candidates, the President’s ‘father-of-the-nation’ role entails a key guiding role that contributes to strengthening the economy, political systems, collaborations, and reconciliation in the wake of the COVID-19 fallout and critical development challenges facing the country.
In the past week, I had the privilege of joining an exciting and insightful online webinar featuring an interview with Professor Jeffrey Sachs on Accelerating Progress on SDGs in Malaysia . The interview –skillfully moderated by my friend and colleague UN Resident Coordinator for Malaysia and Singapore, Ms Karima El Korri – was organised by the Sunway University and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), part of a global network of universities and institutions promoting sustainable development practices. Incidentally, we (the UN) are assisting the University of Timor-Leste to join this Network soon. As always, Professor Sachs covers a lot of historical ground and makes fascinating connections between social and economic progress and many global challenges that the world faces today. He starts by drawing attention to the combination of events that contributed to global economic growth in the period after 1776 (imperialism, the industrial revolution, the role of fossil fuels, self-interest, the dominance of market economies and many other factors).
Professor Sachs points out that “…one of the reasons the world is struggling to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels is that we have had 200+ years of economic growth based on a reliance on fossil fuels and market economies. The powerful forces behind fossil fuels are pervasive and shape almost every aspect of our lives. So, breaking that dependence and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and shifting towards carbon-neutral growth may take years, possibly decades.” This is why governments and development institutions need to prepare long-term plans now and to ensure that these are practically progressed annually for this critical global transition. He notes that sadly even after the past decade of rising global temperatures and changing global weather patterns contributing to more frequent and devastating environmental disasters, as well as the loss of biodiversity and the COVID-19 pandemic, we have yet to see many governments, industries and international institutions develop and implement robust long-term (20-year plus) plans for zero carbon growth. As the IPCC (International Panel on Climate Change) has said on many occasions (see: https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/ipcc-report-climate-change/) ‘time is running out’! “…one of the reasons the world is struggling to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels is that we have had 200+ years of economic growth based on a reliance on fossil fuels and market economies. The powerful forces behind fossil fuels are pervasive and shape almost every aspect of our lives. So, breaking that dependence and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and shifting towards carbon-neutral growth may take years, possibly decades.” By making a powerful case for the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) as the guiding principles for a better, more sustainable world for all, he advocates for “six big transformations” that he believes are essential for nations in the Asia-Pacific region (all of whom, according to data from ESCAP, are ‘off-track in terms of progress against the SDGs’ (see: https://data.unescap.org/data-analysis/sdg-progress.) The Asia-Pacific region is home to 60% of the global population, so if the world is to achieve the SDGs by 2030, it is vital that this region achieves the progress that is needed. The six transformations that Professor Sachs’ identifies are: (i) Quality Education for all; (ii) Health for all; (iii) Energy and industrial transformation; (iv) Sustainable land use (and one might add, especially for small island states and many others sustainable use of oceans); (v) sustainable cities; (vi) Digital transformation. While also emphasising the vital importance of gender equality and inclusion, Professor Sachs’ makes a personal plea for increased women’s leadership globally and in all spheres to accompany and accelerate the transformations needed to create a better world for all. This presentation made me reflect on the work that the UN is supporting in Timor-Leste and elsewhere. How can we better support political leaders, governments and key institutions in the countries we serve to develop serious, long-term, inclusive, and sustainable plans for climate action and carbon-neutral growth? And more importantly, how can we more effectively support the development and implementation of long-term plans for such transformations? An essential first step is perhaps helping people clearly define what type of national development they would like to see in their country. In my conversations with some Timorese citizens, I have heard friends and colleagues say that they would like Timor-Leste to be more like Singapore. I wonder, however, which aspects of Singapore’s development people in Timor really value. If that is a ‘model’ that Timorese citizens want to emulate, how can we start to chart a path to move from where we are now to foster a model of development that benefits and creates a better, more sustainable future for all? And critically, how can we ensure that progress is measured year-on-year to safeguard a better future for all?
With the second round of the Presidential Elections imminent, it has been an interesting and exciting past week, thinking about now as well as the future of the country. Irrespective of the people’s decision for either of the candidates, the President’s ‘father-of-the-nation’ role entails a key guiding role that contributes to strengthening the economy, political systems, collaborations, and reconciliation in the wake of the COVID-19 fallout and critical development challenges facing the country.
In the past week, I had the privilege of joining an exciting and insightful online webinar featuring an interview with Professor Jeffrey Sachs on Accelerating Progress on SDGs in Malaysia . The interview –skillfully moderated by my friend and colleague UN Resident Coordinator for Malaysia and Singapore, Ms Karima El Korri – was organised by the Sunway University and the Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), part of a global network of universities and institutions promoting sustainable development practices. Incidentally, we (the UN) are assisting the University of Timor-Leste to join this Network soon. As always, Professor Sachs covers a lot of historical ground and makes fascinating connections between social and economic progress and many global challenges that the world faces today. He starts by drawing attention to the combination of events that contributed to global economic growth in the period after 1776 (imperialism, the industrial revolution, the role of fossil fuels, self-interest, the dominance of market economies and many other factors).
Professor Sachs points out that “…one of the reasons the world is struggling to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels is that we have had 200+ years of economic growth based on a reliance on fossil fuels and market economies. The powerful forces behind fossil fuels are pervasive and shape almost every aspect of our lives. So, breaking that dependence and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and shifting towards carbon-neutral growth may take years, possibly decades.” This is why governments and development institutions need to prepare long-term plans now and to ensure that these are practically progressed annually for this critical global transition. He notes that sadly even after the past decade of rising global temperatures and changing global weather patterns contributing to more frequent and devastating environmental disasters, as well as the loss of biodiversity and the COVID-19 pandemic, we have yet to see many governments, industries and international institutions develop and implement robust long-term (20-year plus) plans for zero carbon growth. As the IPCC (International Panel on Climate Change) has said on many occasions (see: https://www.nature.org/en-us/what-we-do/our-insights/perspectives/ipcc-report-climate-change/) ‘time is running out’! “…one of the reasons the world is struggling to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels is that we have had 200+ years of economic growth based on a reliance on fossil fuels and market economies. The powerful forces behind fossil fuels are pervasive and shape almost every aspect of our lives. So, breaking that dependence and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and shifting towards carbon-neutral growth may take years, possibly decades.” By making a powerful case for the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) as the guiding principles for a better, more sustainable world for all, he advocates for “six big transformations” that he believes are essential for nations in the Asia-Pacific region (all of whom, according to data from ESCAP, are ‘off-track in terms of progress against the SDGs’ (see: https://data.unescap.org/data-analysis/sdg-progress.) The Asia-Pacific region is home to 60% of the global population, so if the world is to achieve the SDGs by 2030, it is vital that this region achieves the progress that is needed. The six transformations that Professor Sachs’ identifies are: (i) Quality Education for all; (ii) Health for all; (iii) Energy and industrial transformation; (iv) Sustainable land use (and one might add, especially for small island states and many others sustainable use of oceans); (v) sustainable cities; (vi) Digital transformation. While also emphasising the vital importance of gender equality and inclusion, Professor Sachs’ makes a personal plea for increased women’s leadership globally and in all spheres to accompany and accelerate the transformations needed to create a better world for all. This presentation made me reflect on the work that the UN is supporting in Timor-Leste and elsewhere. How can we better support political leaders, governments and key institutions in the countries we serve to develop serious, long-term, inclusive, and sustainable plans for climate action and carbon-neutral growth? And more importantly, how can we more effectively support the development and implementation of long-term plans for such transformations? An essential first step is perhaps helping people clearly define what type of national development they would like to see in their country. In my conversations with some Timorese citizens, I have heard friends and colleagues say that they would like Timor-Leste to be more like Singapore. I wonder, however, which aspects of Singapore’s development people in Timor really value. If that is a ‘model’ that Timorese citizens want to emulate, how can we start to chart a path to move from where we are now to foster a model of development that benefits and creates a better, more sustainable future for all? And critically, how can we ensure that progress is measured year-on-year to safeguard a better future for all?
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15 March 2022
Children in Grade 1 inspired to learn by peer mentors in Timor-Leste
Around forty children between the ages of five to seven sit in small groups on a large verandah and in classrooms at the Eskola Basic Filial (EBF) Matata school in Ermera Municipality. All of them are completely engrossed in books that they occasionally point to as they emphasize a detail or show each other some of the illustrations.
The setting is a school in the Ermera Municipality, where the UNICEF supported ‘Ready to LEAP’ (Learn, Engage, Achieve, Progress) programme, introduced in 2019 with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, is helping children have a smooth transition from home to formal schooling. Similar activity is being conducted at ten other basic education schools in Ermera and Liquica municipalities.
The initiative helps children who enrolled in grade 1 or those repeating grade 1 to get additional support from the school, their parents, families and other students (peer mentors) to build up their confidence and prepare to continue learning in a school-based setting. Trained peer mentors play a key role in inspiring younger children to learn.
UNICEF Timor-Leste/2020/Dmaia
Grade 3 students involved as young mentors to Grade 1 students in EBF Matata, Ermera municipality.
In a country where only 27 per cent of children are enrolled in preschools, and where the grade 1 repetition rate is 19 per cent, initiatives such as these make a big difference in inspiring younger children to transition smoothly into school-based learning. To date, the school readiness programme has benefitted 1,314 students in grade 1 classes and enabled 439 students between 10 -11 years old from eleven basic education schools to take part in this initiative as peer mentors. So as not to interrupt learning for peer mentors, these sessions take place every Saturday.
The training for teachers and peer mentors at the school in Ermera was initially conducted in 2019 in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports. However, the rollout of the programme was interrupted by COVID-19 related school closures. Most of the trained peer mentors from Grade 5 and Grade 6, who usually take part in this initiative, had also already graduated or were busy preparing for their final examinations.
However, the EBF Matata basic school introduced new ideas to keep the programme running. Teachers from EBF Matata school started engaging with Grade 2 and Grade 3 students who were once beneficiaries of the programme in 2019, to train and help them become peer mentors themselves and help inspire younger children to learn.
“I feel so happy and proud when the teacher asked me to be a young facilitator. Since joining this programme, I have become much closer to grade 1 students and have become friends with them” said 10-year-old Davio Bosco Cardoso
UNICEF Timor-Leste/2022/LRangel
A peer mentor takes part in an interview through phone call to help other children continue to learn.
Nine-year-old Merelia de Francia Mali Goncalves expressed her excitement at being part of the programme “I feel so proud because I am like a teacher for them, I make them feel happy, to be diligent, and they come to the school every day. So it is a great feeling,” she says.
At the beginning of the programme, teachers accompanied the peer mentors and supported them until the mentors were capable of running the activities on their own. As the programme progressed, teachers say the peer mentors got over their initial shyness and became more confident to speak up and lead the sessions.
“This is not only benefitting the Grade 1 students. After taking a role as peer mentors, the literacy and numeracy skills of the mentors also improved, and so did their social skills, for example, understanding ways to solve problems, or how to communicate with friends and manage time,” said Lurdes Rangel Goncalves, a teacher at the EBF Matata School in Ermera.
With additional funding from UNICEF Australia, the ‘Ready to LEAP’ programme will continue in 2022 and 2023 in 30 more schools in five municipalities. These would incorporate additional inclusive and sustainable approaches, including supporting the participation of children with disabilities.
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16 November 2022
Timor-Leste: Targeting soil transmitted infection, one deworming tablet at a time
A day after a Mass Drug Administration (MDA) drive was held at the EB Alpha Primary School in Timor-Leste’s capital city Dili, seven-year-old Rizky Martins Pinto, a grade one student, passed a long worm. “It looks like a snake,” Rizky told his father that morning.
Rizky is among the 90,000 school aged children who received the deworming tablet albendazole during the three week long MDA drive that covered three municipalities and 251 schools in October 2022. The drive targeted soil transmitted helminths (STH), the intestinal worms that infect humans through contaminated soil and are associated with anemia, malnutrition, growth and cognitive impairment, and decreased productivity among children.
Rizky Martins Pinto (7). WHO Photo/ Emilia “Rizky had a poor appetite since very long time, but I can already feel that he is eating well since the deworming,” said Rizky’s father Octavio Pinto. “I am sure that his health will benefit further, and he will become more active in school,” he said adding that the worm Rizky passed was almost 15 cm long. Many of Rizky’s schoolmates had similar stories to tell. The school’s coordinator Liliana Maria Gaio said that the “worms” have been a topic of discussion among the children since the deworming drive. “With so many children passing worms, it is evident that the infection is widespread, and the deworming drive definitely seems to have helped,” said Gaio adding that the parents were informed about the drive in advance through a letter. “We told them about the benefits of the deworming tablet,” she said.
Rizky with his father Octavio Pinto. WHO Photo/Emilia STH infection is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with high prevalence in Timor-Leste. A national level parasite survey carried out in 2012 had estimated the prevalence of STH ranging between 4% to 55% in various municipalities of the country. The Ministry of Health with support from the World Health Organization has conducted several rounds of MDA to reduce the prevalence. A large-scale Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS) conducted between 2020-2021 showed that the prevalence of STH ranged between 2% to 50% in various areas. “The high prevalence of STH remains a cause of concern,” said Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO representative to Timor-Leste. “Over the past few years, we have intensified our efforts to support the Ministry of Health and tackle these infections through various programmes. The latest MDA drive was held under the school health and nutrition programme called Say No To 5S,” he said. The Say No to 5S programme aims at improving the health and nutrition of Timorese children by tackling Starvation, Soil-transmitted Helminthiasis, Skin diseases, Smoking and Sugary/Alcoholic Drinks. The project, a collaboration between WHO and the World Food Programme (WFP), is funded by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). These efforts undertaken in Timor-Leste are important considering that nearly 47 percent of children under five years of age in the country are stunted, 8.6 percent suffer from acute malnutrition, and 23 percent of women of reproductive age (15 -49 years) are anaemic, according to data collated by the WFP.
Distribution of deworming tablets at a primary school in Fatumeta in Dili during the MDA drive in October 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo According to Dr Mathur, the WHO will continue to plan MDA drives over the coming months, especially in areas with high prevalence of STH and other NTDs that can be curbed through preventive chemotherapy. MDA (also referred to as preventive chemotherapy) is one of the WHO’s recommended strategies to control and eliminate several NTDs. The other strategies include individual case management, vector control, veterinary public health and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
Rizky Martins Pinto (7). WHO Photo/ Emilia “Rizky had a poor appetite since very long time, but I can already feel that he is eating well since the deworming,” said Rizky’s father Octavio Pinto. “I am sure that his health will benefit further, and he will become more active in school,” he said adding that the worm Rizky passed was almost 15 cm long. Many of Rizky’s schoolmates had similar stories to tell. The school’s coordinator Liliana Maria Gaio said that the “worms” have been a topic of discussion among the children since the deworming drive. “With so many children passing worms, it is evident that the infection is widespread, and the deworming drive definitely seems to have helped,” said Gaio adding that the parents were informed about the drive in advance through a letter. “We told them about the benefits of the deworming tablet,” she said.
Rizky with his father Octavio Pinto. WHO Photo/Emilia STH infection is one of the neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) with high prevalence in Timor-Leste. A national level parasite survey carried out in 2012 had estimated the prevalence of STH ranging between 4% to 55% in various municipalities of the country. The Ministry of Health with support from the World Health Organization has conducted several rounds of MDA to reduce the prevalence. A large-scale Transmission Assessment Survey (TAS) conducted between 2020-2021 showed that the prevalence of STH ranged between 2% to 50% in various areas. “The high prevalence of STH remains a cause of concern,” said Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO representative to Timor-Leste. “Over the past few years, we have intensified our efforts to support the Ministry of Health and tackle these infections through various programmes. The latest MDA drive was held under the school health and nutrition programme called Say No To 5S,” he said. The Say No to 5S programme aims at improving the health and nutrition of Timorese children by tackling Starvation, Soil-transmitted Helminthiasis, Skin diseases, Smoking and Sugary/Alcoholic Drinks. The project, a collaboration between WHO and the World Food Programme (WFP), is funded by the Korean International Cooperation Agency (KOICA). These efforts undertaken in Timor-Leste are important considering that nearly 47 percent of children under five years of age in the country are stunted, 8.6 percent suffer from acute malnutrition, and 23 percent of women of reproductive age (15 -49 years) are anaemic, according to data collated by the WFP.
Distribution of deworming tablets at a primary school in Fatumeta in Dili during the MDA drive in October 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo According to Dr Mathur, the WHO will continue to plan MDA drives over the coming months, especially in areas with high prevalence of STH and other NTDs that can be curbed through preventive chemotherapy. MDA (also referred to as preventive chemotherapy) is one of the WHO’s recommended strategies to control and eliminate several NTDs. The other strategies include individual case management, vector control, veterinary public health and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
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10 November 2022
Improving quality of life of lymphatic filariasis patients through follow-up
In the last week of October, the farmer based in Viqueque district of Timor-Leste, had a visit from a health team following up known LF patients for Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP). When one of the healthcare workers began cleaning his left leg, he found a one-inch metal thumb tack lodged into his foot.
“I didn’t feel it all this while,” Fernando told the health worker who pulled out the metal pin and cleaned the wound. “I don’t know how long the nail was lodged there,” he added.
Eighty-one-year-old Fernando Ximenes during the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) follow up on 26 October 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo LF, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by infection with parasites classified as nematodes (roundworms). The infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. Usually, the infection is acquired in the childhood, but its lasting impact occurs in adults who not only struggle with physical disability, but also stigma and poverty. Fernando was diagnosed with LF when he was 39-year-old. In the records of the Ministry of Health’s NTD team, Fernando is described as a stage 2 patient with swelling in both lower limbs below the knee. He is also suffering from loss of sensation due to the swelling. During the follow up, the health team assessed his condition, told him about alleviation exercises to reduce the swelling and provided tips on wound care and hygiene along with some medication and ointments.
Members of the WHO and MoH team examine a patient during the seventh round of MMDP follow up held between 25 October to 10 November 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo Timor-Leste has 435 confirmed LF patients who are currently on follow-up. The country has not detected a new LF case since 2019, and it has set focus on eliminating the disease by adopting two strategies under the WHO’s Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF)- stopping the spread of infection through large-scale annual treatment of all eligible people in an area or region where infection is present; and alleviating the suffering caused by lymphatic filariasis through provision of the recommended essential package of care. “The WHO country office in Timor-Leste has been providing the required technical support to the Ministry of Health to strengthen their measures to eliminate LF as well as all other NTDs in the country,” said WHO representative Dr Arvind Mathur. “We will continue these efforts on a war-footing,” he said adding that the country signed the Kigali Declaration on NTDs on 13 June 2022 attesting its commitment toward the cause. Timor-Leste has emphasized on stronger surveillance to identify new cases of LF and every municipality has a focal point to provide health services including the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) service. For patient’s like Ximenes, the MMDP service helps in reducing acute episodes of pain and fever, managing the swelling, and remaining active despite if the physical discomfort. “MMDP is a crucial part of the programme as it improves the quality of life of the known LF patients,” said Dr Debashish Kundu, technical officer (communicable diseases), WHO Timor-Leste. “This is the seventh follow-up round for MMDP and overall monitoring of the programme in the country. Teams consisting of WHO and MoH staff are covering several municipalities to reach out to as many patients as possible,” he said.
Eighty-one-year-old Fernando Ximenes during the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) follow up on 26 October 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo LF, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) caused by infection with parasites classified as nematodes (roundworms). The infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. Usually, the infection is acquired in the childhood, but its lasting impact occurs in adults who not only struggle with physical disability, but also stigma and poverty. Fernando was diagnosed with LF when he was 39-year-old. In the records of the Ministry of Health’s NTD team, Fernando is described as a stage 2 patient with swelling in both lower limbs below the knee. He is also suffering from loss of sensation due to the swelling. During the follow up, the health team assessed his condition, told him about alleviation exercises to reduce the swelling and provided tips on wound care and hygiene along with some medication and ointments.
Members of the WHO and MoH team examine a patient during the seventh round of MMDP follow up held between 25 October to 10 November 2022. WHO Photo/Cirilo Timor-Leste has 435 confirmed LF patients who are currently on follow-up. The country has not detected a new LF case since 2019, and it has set focus on eliminating the disease by adopting two strategies under the WHO’s Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF)- stopping the spread of infection through large-scale annual treatment of all eligible people in an area or region where infection is present; and alleviating the suffering caused by lymphatic filariasis through provision of the recommended essential package of care. “The WHO country office in Timor-Leste has been providing the required technical support to the Ministry of Health to strengthen their measures to eliminate LF as well as all other NTDs in the country,” said WHO representative Dr Arvind Mathur. “We will continue these efforts on a war-footing,” he said adding that the country signed the Kigali Declaration on NTDs on 13 June 2022 attesting its commitment toward the cause. Timor-Leste has emphasized on stronger surveillance to identify new cases of LF and every municipality has a focal point to provide health services including the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) service. For patient’s like Ximenes, the MMDP service helps in reducing acute episodes of pain and fever, managing the swelling, and remaining active despite if the physical discomfort. “MMDP is a crucial part of the programme as it improves the quality of life of the known LF patients,” said Dr Debashish Kundu, technical officer (communicable diseases), WHO Timor-Leste. “This is the seventh follow-up round for MMDP and overall monitoring of the programme in the country. Teams consisting of WHO and MoH staff are covering several municipalities to reach out to as many patients as possible,” he said.
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06 October 2022
Improving women’s health through a cervical cancer screening facility
Last month when she learned about the cervical cancer screening available at the Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV) in Dili, she promptly visited the health facility. On August 18, Gabat underwent the Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), a simple naked-eye examination of the cervix conducted by a health worker after application of diluted acetic acid. The result, given to her within a few minutes, was negative for any precancerous lesions or cancer.
“I am relieved,” said Gabat. “I will continue screening at regular intervals, because it is important,” she added.
Ann Liza Gabat (41) at the Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV) in Dili. WHO Timor-Leste/Jyoti Shelar
Gabat is among the 160 women who have undergone the VIA screening since the Treatment Centre for Pre-Cancerous Cervical Lesions opened in HNGV in June 2022 with technical and financial support from the World Health Organization. The Centre consists of a VIA screening facility, a colposcopy facility and is also equipped to conduct the thermal ablation procedures for early-stage cancers or precancerous lesions.
Out of the 160 women, about nine were suspected for precancerous or cancerous lesions and advised to undergo colposcopy. The colposcopy procedure involves a healthcare provider taking a closer look at the cervix with the help of a microscope attached with a light (colposcope).
Of the nine women, four were detected with cervical cancer and were directed further for appropriate treatment and care.
Pascoal de Aranjo Pinto, in-charge of the Treatment Centre for Pre-Cancerous Cervical Lesions, said that the screening is offered twice a week and an average of eight women turn up at the facility on the scheduled days.
“We want more women to come forward for the screening,” said Pinto. “There is definitely a need for advocacy on the ground. Women need to know that they must not wait for any symptoms to get screened. Cervical cancer screening is recommended for women between 25 to 65 years, with or without any kind of symptoms,” he added.
dr. Odete Maria Freitas Belo, Minister of Health and Dr. Arvind Mathur, WHO representative to Timor-Leste inaugurate the Treatment Centre for Pre-Cancerous Cervical Lesions at HNGV in Dili on 2 June 2022. WHO Timor-Leste/Cirilo
Cervical cancer is the second most common cancer among women in Timor-Leste with 50 new cases (12.5 per 100,000 women) and 24 deaths (6.2 per 100,000 women) in 2018, according to a UNFPA country review document. The review also stated a prediction that a total of 3,494 women in Timor-Leste will die from cervical cancer by 2070 and 13,166 by 2120.
Almost all cervical cancer cases (99%) globally are linked to infection with high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPV), an extremely common virus transmitted through sexual contact. Therefore, WHO is in the process of implementing multi-pronged strategies not just directed towards screening for early detection and treatment of cervical cancer but also for preventing the disease.
“In addition to HNGV, the WHO is working with the Ministry of Health to start cervical cancer screening centres in five other referral hospitals in Timor-Leste,” said Dr. Arvind Mathur, WHO representative to Timor-Leste. “By 2023, the WHO with support from Gavi, the vaccine alliance, will also start HPV vaccination for 11-year-old girls as a school-based programme. Efforts are also on to introduce HPV DNA testing as a part of the cervical cancer screening programme,” he said adding that WHO has also trained 13 doctors and other healthcare providers to conduct VIA screening, colposcopy and thermal ablation procedures at HNGV and five other referral hospitals.
The efforts by WHO Timor-Leste are in alignment with the WHO’s global strategy to accelerate the elimination of cervical cancer as a public health problem adopted during the 73rd World Health Assembly in 2020. The strategy aims proposes that 90% of girls are fully vaccinated with HPV vaccine by age 15 years, 70% of women are screened with a high-performance test by 35 years of age and again by 45 years of age, and 90% of women identified with cervical disease receive treatment.
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26 September 2022
World Contraception Day 2022: Access to safe and effective family planning methods key to gender equality and improved livelihoods
While access to family planning and sexual and reproductive health services is critical in ensuring gender equality and improved livelihoods, an estimated 257 million women lack access to safe and effective family planning methods globally.
Similarly, a UNFPA study on Impact of COVID-19 on Family Planning found that nearly 12 million women in 115 countries lost access to family planning services, leading to 1.4 million unintended pregnancies resulting from the disruptions caused by COVID-19.
In Timor-Leste over half of married women of reproductive age (15-49) have expressed a desire to space or limit the number of children they have. Although, nearly one in three women aged 15 to 49 have an unmet need for family planning, with women aged 20 to 24 having the highest unmet need.
For Mrs. Joanzinha Gura da Costa, a 22-year-old mother of two, lack of access to family planning meant postponing her education.
It is recommended that a woman should wait until her last child is at least two years old before becoming pregnant again, to safeguard her health and that of her child.
“I got married when I was a second year student in a private university in Dili where my husband was also studying. I was 20 years old at that time and had to discontinue my studies when I got pregnant. My first born daughter was born in July 2019 and my second born daughter in July 2020 – less than one year apart,” says Mrs. Joazinha Gura.
Girls and women should have the right to plan their families and to realise their dreams in life; for example, pursuing education, engaging in economic activities, to be prosperous, and to contribute to socio-economic development of their families, communities and nations.
“When I saw my classmates go to school I felt very sad and almost lost hope for the future, but after my second daughter was born, my parents and husband advised me to use contraceptives to allow me to continue with my studies and for better spacing.
“I went to Becora Community Health Centre in September 2020 to talk to a health service provider and was counselled on the benefits of using family planning and the available options. I opted for the use of injections method and managed to go back to university to continue with my studies -- I am now in my final year.
“When we are empowered to plan for our families -- as I and my husband did -- we spend more resources on our children’s nutrition, healthcare, and their education,” added Mrs. Joazinha Gura da Costa.
During the 25th anniversary of the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Nairobi, Kenya in 2019, Timor-Leste was part of 179 governments that adopted a landmark Programme of Action, representing a resounding endorsement that securing reproductive health, individual rights and women’s empowerment is the obligation of every country and community.
However, as the world marks World Contraception Day, celebrated globally on September 26, many women are denied their rights to access safe and voluntary family planning services. This hinders their ability to build a better future for themselves, their families and their communities.
Mrs. Olimpia Pinto, a mother of a two-year-old daughter, observes that family planning improves the quality of life for both parents and children.
“We decided to use injections as a family planning method, as a family, to allow for close attention to our daughter. She is now two years and seven months old. Me and my husband, who is still in college, have decided to have another child after he finishes his studies and gets a job while I continue supporting the family with my business.” Said Mrs. Olimpia Pinto.
Mrs. Candida Soares, a midwife at Becora Community Health Centre, who provides family planning services testified that the number of clients accessing family planning services has increased in recent years.
“The number of women seeking to use family planning methods in Becora Community Health Centre has increased in the last three years; in 2019 with a total of 1827, in 2020 with a total of 2671, in 2021 with a total of 1332, and from January 2022 until September 2022 with a total of 984.
“Notably, in 2021 and early 2022 the numbers reduced because of the Covid-19 pandemic and the Government implemented state of emergency and social distancing restrictions,” Mrs. Candida Soares, explains.
Through the UNFPA Supplies -- a flagship programme that helps countries build strong health systems and widen access to a reliable supply of modern contraceptives and life-saving medicines for maternal health -- UNFPA has supported commodity procurement in close collaboration with Government of Timor-Leste since 2013.
For more information, contact;
Suleiman Okoth
Communications and Programme Support Specialist
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Timor-Leste
UN House, Caicoli Street
Dili, Timor-Leste
Mobile: +670 75169796
WhatsApp: +254 780534026
Email; okoth@unfpa.org
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23 September 2022
Tau iha prátika Fraternidade Umanu
Parte ida hosi lei sira neebé signifikante no rohan-laek katak ita ida bele sai hosi moris ida ba pás no atu promove fraternidade no laran-di 'ak liuhusi ita-nia asaun individuál sira.
Semana ida ne'e, Timor-Leste sai nu'udar nasaun dahuluk iha mundu ne'ebé inklui “Dokumentu kona-ba Fraternidade Umanu ba Pás no Moris Hamutuk” nu'udar parte husi valór nasionál sira. Dokumentu ida ne'e prepara ona iha fulan-fevereiru tinan 2019, ho dirijente relijiaun boot rua husi ita-nia tempu, Papa Francisco no Ima Avo-har Ahmed Al-Tayeb, ne'ebé reprezenta fiar ba importánsia husi “fraternidade" atu promove pás iha mundu.
Iha Timor-Leste, SE Presidente, Dr Jose Ramos Horta, informa ba ita hotu kona-ba importansia husi Deklarasaun ida ne’e iha inisiu tinan ida ne’e. Ikus liu, Parlamentu Nasionál aprova ona Dokumentu ne'e ho lian ida de'it iha loron 12 fulan-maiu no deklara ona ninia kompromisu ba valór sira husi pás, diálogu no respeitu ba direitus umanus.
Parlamentu mós husu ba Governu no sidadaun hotu-hotu atu promove importánsia fraternidade umana nian, ne'ebé hahú iha nível nasionál no habelar liu hosi asaun prátiku sira, ba nivel sosiedade tomak, ho objetivu atu hadi'a moris-di'ak sidadaun hotu-hotu nian, no iha nível multilaterál, liuhusi adosaun ba "hahalok protesaun nian ne'ebé promove konvivénsia pasífika entre povu sira. "Iha okaziaun serimónia simu pose nu'udar Prezidente Repúblika, Dr. José Ramos-Horta, hateten hikas fali esforsu hotu atu halo adaptasaun no hatama dokumentu sira iha kurríkulu eskolár Timor-Leste nian.
Nune'e, ho orgullu boot tebes maka semana ida ne'e ho vizita husi Sua Exelénsia Archbishop Edgar Pena Perra, Vise Primeiru-Ministru Vatikanu, Prezidente, Parlamentu no Governu Timor-Leste lansa ona “Centro da Fraternidade Humana Timor-Leste”. Ida ne'e momentu ida ne'ebé di'ak tebes iha istória país nian, ne'ebé koinside ho aniversáriu Restaurasaun Independénsia Timor-Leste nian ba dala 20.
Viva Fraternidade Humana! Viva Timor-Leste!
Ha'u sente onradu tanba hetan konvite atu fahe ha'u-nia perspetiva kona-ba konseitu “Fraternidade" no Dokumentu iha Simpóziu espesiál ida ne'ebé organiza hosi Universidade Catolica Timorense (UCT), Saun João Paulo II. Eventu nee espesiál tebes.
Iha ha’u nia diskursu ha’u dada inspirasaun husi Artigu 1 Deklarasaun Universál Direitus Umanus nian. UDHR hanesan dokumentu importante ida iha istória direitus umanus nian. Asembleia Jerál Nasoins Unidas nian fó sai ona iha Paris, iha fulan-dezembru tinan 1948 nu'udar padraun komun husi konkista sira ba ema hotu (la haree ba idade, rasa, étniku, jéneru, kapasidade ka karakterístika sira seluk) no ba nasaun hotu-hotu. UDHR ne'ebé estabelese ba dahuluk, direitu umanus fundamentál ne'ebé universalmente protejidu. Nia fó baze fundamentál ba servisu hotu-hotu kona-ba dezenvolvimentu umanu no tradúz ona ba lian 500.
UDHR afirma: "Ema hotu-hotu moris livre no hanesan iha dignidade no direitu. Sira iha razaun no konxiénsia no sira tenke halo buat ne'ebé hanesan maun-alin."
Objetivu Dezenvolvimentu Sustentável (ODS), ne'ebé dirijente mundiál sira konkorda ona iha tinan 2015, harii mós iha objetivu báziku sira ne'ebé sai hanesan dependénsia ba umanidade nia futuru. Dame, seguransa no dezenvolvimentu sustentavel so bele alkansa deit liu husi esforsu koletivu.
Santu Francis Assisi, iha nia livru "Arte no Arkitetura ba Dame", hateten tan katak "dalan ba dame la signifika sosiedade estagna maibé halibur ema hamutuk, hamutuk hodi buka objetivu ne'ebé fó benefísiu ba ema hotu".
Lideransa relijiozu no profeta sira hosi relijiaun hotu-hotu enfaze tiha ona mensajen ida ne’ebé hanesan kona-ba dame, domin no fraternidade durante tinan barak nia laran.
Iha aspetu ida ne'ebé signifikativu no rohan-laek liu ne'ebé ita hotu bele sai husi ne'e, ba pás no ba espíritu ida ne'ebé promove fraternidade umana no ninia laran-di'ak liuhusi ita-nia asaun individuál sira.
Tanbasá ida ne'e importante?
Tanba istória fó hanoin mai ita katak la iha pás, la iha dezenvolvimentu sustentável; ko'alia loloos, la iha dezenvolvimentu sustentável, la iha pás ida ne'ebé dura ba nafatin!
Maski nune'e, iha mundu ohin loron nian, ita kontinua moris iha mundu ida ne'ebé ho konflitu, pandemia, mudansa klimátika, no violénsia (infelizmente inklui mós konflitu entre relijiaun) ne'ebé kontinua kauza terus boot, hata'uk ema barak ne'ebé kiak no vulneravel liu nia moris no limita dezenvolvimentu lokál, nasionál no globál.
Istória na’in eminente ida dehan: “Ita hotu hanesan ema umanu, étniku, jeneru mak diskoneta ita, relijiaun haketak ita, politika fahe ita, no riku-soin, klase no mak klasifika ita! Sekretáriu-Jerál ONU nian foin daudaun ne'e dehan: "Ita nia mundu hetan susar tanba funu, hetan ameasa husi klima, ta'uk tanba odi, moe tanba kiak no hamlaha. Ita presiza halibur hamutuk solusaun sira - no ita presiza fó esperansa."
Entaun, oinsá mak ita bele tau prinsípiu fraternidade nian iha prátika?
Husik ha'u sujere dalan balu ne'ebé ita hotu bele kontribui.
Ba dahuluk, ita presiza iha dame ne'ebé loloos nu'udar ema individuál. “Liuhusi pás ida de'it mak ita bele iha liberdade," tuir buat ne'ebé mak hakerek husi Shri Chinmoy, iha ninia livru "Aventura de vida. Se laiha ida ne'e, ema sira ne'e sei kontinua kompete no halo kompetisaun beibeik ba malu. Prátika orasaun, meditasaun, yoga no rituál kulturál no relijioza sira seluk hotu buka atu promove dame iha ita-nia an rasik. minutu balu de'it husi hahalok hakmatek no reflesaun nian kada loron bele fó benefísiu ba ita ida-idak no ita nia moris no mós ba ita-nia maluk sira ne'ebé besik liu no mós ba ema seluk nia moris.
Segundu, importansia husi diálogu no asaun entre-relijiaun atu rekoñese kontribuisaun valiozu ne'ebé ema iha relijiaun hotu-hotu bele halo ba umanidade no kontribuisaun ne'ebé diálogu entre grupu fiar sira bele kontribui ba hasa'e konxiénsia no komprensaun valores komun ema nian. Asaun entre-relijiaun ne’e iha podér atu influénsia ema nia moris no bele hala’o papél importante atu promove asaun koletivu pozitivu hodi prevene no redús: violénsia bazeia ba jéneru (VBJ); violénsia hasoru labarik no ema ho defisiénsia; malnutrisaun no hamlaha; no dezafiu sosiál sira seluk.
Datoluk, importánsia inkluzaun nian hodi hasa'e konxiénsia kona-ba kultura ka fiar ne'ebé diferente no promove toleránsia, ne'ebé envolve sosiedade nia aseitasaun no respeitu ba diversidade relijiozu no kulturál, inklui kona-ba espresaun relijiozu. Edukasaun, liu-liu iha eskola no koléjiu sira, tenke kontribui ho forma ne'ebé kompletu hodi promove toleránsia no halakon diskriminasaun ne'ebé bazeia ba relijiaun, fiar, kapasidade, jéneru, klase, no diferensa sira seluk. Nu'udar ema umanu, ita iha diferensa sira ne'e ne'ebé halo ita ketak. Ita tenke insentiva atividade sira ne'ebé promove toleránsia, tradisaun pluralizmu, respeitu malu no diversidade fiar nian, atu nune'e bele promove fraternidade umana loloos iha nível rejionál, nasionál no lokál.
Dahaat, hanesan ita kompromete ona ba fraternidade umana, ita mós presiza haka'as-an hodi proteje no apoia forma moris seluk iha ita-nia planeta! Ita nia moris la'ós depende de'it ba ema seluk, maibé mós ba flora no fauna ne'ebé furak ne'ebé hela iha mundu. Karik umanu sira kontinua estraga mundu naturál, ita-nia ezisténsia sei hetan ameasa nafatin. Ita tenke promove kustodia diak liu iha ita nia planeta!
Ikus liu, ha'u hakarak hato'o katak ita hotu bele tau prinsípiu hirak ne'e balun iha asaun, hodi halo pelumenus asaun laran-di'ak nian ida kada loron ba ema ida ne'ebé la'ós ita nia maluk (ema ne'ebé la'ós ita-nia belun ka família).
Ho prinsípiu báziku hirak ne'e, ha'u fiar katak ita bele harii mundu ida ne'ebé di'ak liu ba ema hotu no halo buat barak liután hodi promove toleránsia kulturál no relijiozu, kompriensaun no diálogu iha Timor-Leste no iha mundu.
Ha'u fó parabéns ba líder hotu Timor-Leste nian ba sira nia kompromisu ba "fraternidade umana", ne'ebé agora ita hotu iha oportunidade atu moris hosi prinsípiu sira ne'ebé fó sai iha dokumentu vizaun no istóriku sira kona-ba Fraternidade.
-Remata-
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Press Release
30 November 2022
Timor-Leste to host WHO’s regional meeting on family planning and comprehensive abortion care
Komunikadu Imprensa
Dili, 29 Novembru 2022 - Sorumutuk Tékniku Rejionál OMS Sudeste Aziátiku nian kona-ba Planeamentu Família no Kuidadu Abortu Kompreeensivu hodi Aselera Redusaun Mortalidade Inan sei organiza iha Timor-Leste husi 30 Novembru to'o 2 Dezembru. Sorumutuk nivél aas ho partisipasaun husi nasaun membru 10 husi rejiaun Sudeste Aziátiku nian ne’e, sei inaugura husi S.E. Prezidente Republika Dr. José Ramos Horta iha loron Kuarta-feira iha Salaun Mahoka iha Dili.
Intervensaun planeamentu familiár iha papél signifikante iha redusaun mortalidade inan no oan. Uzu ba métodu kontraseptivu sira bele hamenus isin-rua ne'ebé la ho intensaun liuhusi fó espasu no limita partus.
"Saúde inan no oan nu'udar pilár importante ida husi pilár rejionál ualu OMS nian iha rejiaun Sudeste Aziátiku, no OMS Timor-Leste iha onra atu sai hanesan uma-na'in ba sorumutuk importante iha nasaun ida nee," dehan Dr. Arvind Mathur, Reprezentante OMS nian ba Timor-Leste. "Sorumutuk Rejionál ne'e sei halibur péritu sira husi nasaun membru sira hotu atu halo deliberasaun no halo revizaun ba servisu planeamentu familiár sira iha sira-nia nasaun no rejiaun no halo planu ida atu kobre nesesidade sira ne'ebé la konsege kobre no rezolve dezafiu sira iha futuru," hatutan Dr. Mathur.
Sorumutuk Rejionál ida ne'e sei halibur hamutuk ekipa programa OMS nian, ofisiál sira husi Ministériu Saúde no parseiru relevante sira seluk ne'ebé la hasoru malu durante pandemia COVID-19 tinan rua nia laran. Tópiku sira husi sesaun téknika ne'ebé planeia durante loron tolu ne'e sei inklui progresu globál iha saúde seksuál no reprodutiva, progresu rejionál iha saúde inan no reprodutiva, instrumentu planeamentu familiár ne'ebé atualiza ona, intervensaun auto-care iha saúde seksuál reprodutiva no seluk tán.
Sorumutuk ne'e mós sei fornese plataforma ida ba nasaun membru sira atu hatudu materiál sira kona-ba sira-nia aprosimasaun advokásia nian, susesu no intervensaun sira seluk ne'ebé halo ona mudansa ba iha área planeamentu familiár nian.
Iha loron 1 Dezembru, delegadu sira-ne'e sei hamutuk ho komunidade iha Timor-Leste hodi hala'o diskursu, liuhusi komemora Loron Mundiál ba AIDS no subliña importánsia husi servisu planeamentu familiár ba feto no adolesenti sira ne'ebé iha risku aas ba HIV.
"Sorumutuk Rejionál ne'e hanesan sorumutuk tékniku nivel aas dahuluk ne'ebé sei organiza iha Timor-Leste. Ida ne'e fó oportunidade di'ak ba Governu Timor-Leste no Ministériu Saúde atu hatudu sira-nia susesu no fó sai sira-nia kompromisu iha plataforma rejionál OMS nian," dehan Dr. Mathur.
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Press Release
28 November 2022
Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement Global Coordinator Gerda Verburg arrives in Timor-Leste to discuss progress and advocate for improved nutrition
DILI, TIMOR-LESTE. 28 November 2022 – On a special invitation from H.E. Taur Matan Ruak, Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste (RDTL), Ms Gerda Verburg, Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement Global Coordinator and UN Assistant Secretary-General arrived in Timor-Leste today. She was welcomed and received at the airport by representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UN Resident Coordinator Office (RCO) representatives from World Food Programme (WFP), United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and World Health Organization (WHO), and National SUN focal points (FIlipe Da Costa & Dirce Maria Soares).
Ms. Verburg, accompanied by a three-member delegation that includes Mr. Srikanth Eadara, Regional Representative of SUN Movement Secretariat (SMS) Asia and Mr Alexandre Brecher, Communications and Advocacy Advisor of the SUN Movement, will be visiting Timor-Leste between 28 November and 02 December 2022. The Scaling Up Nutrition (SUN) Movement is a global initiative with 65 member countries and partners which seeks to inspire and drive action to realize the vision of a world free from malnutrition in all its forms, by 2030, for all, especially women and children.
Timor- Leste joined the SUN Movement in September 2020. During her visit, Ms. Verburg will meet with the President, Prime Minister, Vice Prime Minister, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, Agriculture and Health, , United Nations Agencies, Heads of Missions of Bilateral Cooperation Agencies, Development Partners, Civil Society Organizations, Private Sector, youth representatives and academia. She will also launch a breastfeeding room at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, visit a school to observe the School Meal Programme (SMP), the national hospital’s Breastfeeding café and Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) support, and a health center to witness the nutrition program for women and children. A national Secretariat of the SUN Movement has been set up at the Office of the Prime Minister, which leads national coordination of government and all partners to address malnutrition in Timor-Leste.
The SUN Secretariat is supported by the UN Agencies (WFP, UNICEF, and FAO), the European Union (EU), the Government of Australia, the Government of Japan, and numerous other donors, development partners and academia. Led by countries and governments, supported by organisations and individuals – the SUN Movement drives collective action to ensure every individual, especially women and children, can realise their right to food and nutrition, reach their full potential and shape sustainable and prosperous societies.
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Press Release
20 October 2022
Timor-Leste Ratifies CRPD
Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Eighth Constitutional Government
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Press Release
Meeting of the Council of Ministers on May 4th, 2022
The Council of Ministers met, at the Government Palace, in Dili, and approved the draft Decree-Law, presented by the Minister of Higher Education, Science and Culture, Longuinhos dos Santos, for the first amendment to the Organic Structure of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science and Culture. The purpose of this draft Decree-Law is to partially amend the organic structure of this Ministry, to allow the resolution of some service obstacles experienced during the last three years of governance, and to allow for a continuation of the work of growth and evolution of the higher education sector in Timor-Leste.
The draft Decree-Law, presented by the Vice-Minister of Finance, Mr António Freitas, referring to the new Legal Regime of Procurement, Public Contracts and Related Infringements, was also revised and approved. This draft Decree-Law had already been approved in the Meeting of the Council of Ministers on March 16th, 2022, however, due to some amendments introduced in the final drafting phase, it became necessary to submit it to a new resolution. It is intended to create a new legal regime, clearer, simple, objective, rigorous and transparent, to promote the economic and social development of the country.
The Council of Ministers approved the draft Decree-Law, presented by the Minister of Petroleum and Minerals, Victor da Conceição Soares, to establish the Timor Mining Company, S.A.. The purpose of this national mining company is to carry out mining activities as defined by law, including reconnaissance, prospecting and research, evaluation, development, exploration, treatment, transport and marketing of minerals, as well as mine shutdown activities. It may also carry out complementary or ancillary activities to mining activities and provide services related to mining activities, including, in particular, technical, commercial and management consulting services in the mining sector.
Two draft Motions for Resolution to the National Parliament were also approved, presented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation, Adaljiza Albertina Xavier Reis Magno, for the ratification, for accession, to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the ratification, for accession, to the Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This Convention is an instrument of international law, which aims to promote, protect and ensure the full and equal enjoyment of all human rights and fundamental freedoms by all persons with disabilities and to promote respect for their inherent dignity.
The Council of Ministers decided to approve the annual effective to be incorporated in FALINTIL - Defence Force of Timor-Leste (F-FDTL) in 2022, according to the project presented by the Minister of Defence, Filomeno da Paixão de Jesus. Thus, it was approved a military recruitment process for the incorporation of six hundred recruits, of which 240 will be for the Naval Force component, 240 for the Land Force component and 120 for the remaining units.
According to the projects presented by the Minister of Public Works, Abel Pires da Silva, the Council of Ministers decided to authorize the opening of procurement procedures, through international public tender, for the public works regarding the repair works of the highway Suai-Beaço, Section 1: Suai-Fatucai/Mola and regarding the construction of the Municipal Road Uaica-Kelikai-Ossu.
Lastly, the Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Social Solidarity and Inclusion, Armanda Berta dos Santos, and the Minister of Health, Odete Maria Freitas Belo, as Chair and Vice-Chair, respectively, of the Interministerial Committee for the Preparation and Coordination of the Execution of the Vaccination Plan against COVID-19, presented to the Council of Ministers the results of the vaccination and a set of amendments to the Plan.
Among the planned amendments, the Pfizer vaccine will now be administered to citizens aged 18 years or older, also as a first and second dose, in addition to the booster dose that already covered this age group. Those who received the first dose of AstraZeneca or Sinovac vaccines will now be eligible to receive the second dose with the Pfizer vaccine.
By May 2nd, 2022, nationwide, a total of 71.6% of youth between the ages of 12 and 17 have received at least one dose of the vaccine. Nationwide, 36.9% of young people have received both doses. In Dili, 74.4% of young people between 12 and 17 years have already received two doses of the Pfizer vaccine.
Regarding the individuals older than 18 years, 72.2% have received, at least, two doses, and 84.6% have received, at least, one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine. END
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Press Release
13 October 2022
Outgoing UN Resident Coordinator Roy Trivedy receives the highest national award, the Order of Timor-Leste
President Dr J. Ramos-Horta expressed his personal gratitude and that of the country for the support Mr Trivedy extended to Timor-Leste since he took office in 2018. He commended his achievements, notably in coordinating the work of all UN agencies operating in Timor-Leste, including harmonisation of support amongst UN agencies as well as the diversification and the quality of assistance. The President reiterated his appreciation for the United Nations work in pursuit of the Timor-Leste Strategic Development Plan and the United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, agreed by the Council of Ministers in 2020.
Mr Trivedy said he was privileged to have received the most prestigious award from HE Dr Jose Ramos Horta, President of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. “The honour bestowed on me is as much a recognition of the efforts of the UN system and all partners,” said Roy Trivedy. He thanked the President for the trust and confidence in him and the UN system. “We will do our best to continue to serve the country’s development. I can confidently say that Timor-Leste is now better positioned in terms of its longer-term development than in 2018. This results from the collective efforts of national leaders, people and communities, supported by all development partners.”
Mr Trivedy thanked all the people, including political leadership, government officials, the private sector, civil society representatives, the media, communities, and all Development Partners. “I am also especially grateful to colleagues from the UN Country Team - who have made many valuable contributions to Timor-Leste’s development. Most of all, I would also like to thank my wife Teresa and my family and friends who have provided sustained support and encouragement for me in many ways.”
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NOTES TO EDITOR
Roy’s Work in Timor-Leste
Roy arrived in Timor-Leste in 2018 as UN RC and UNDP RR. One of the first things he was involved with was the Launch of the 2018 Human Development Report (which focused on Timor-Leste’s population profile and the potential for the country to benefit from the ‘Demographic Dividend’ as a result of the young population. In 2018, Roy also led the UN’s support for the Parliamentary Elections in 2018.
In 2019, the Government approached the UN RC to support the preparation of the first Voluntary National Review (VNR) of the SDGs. The UN RC helped to identify and recruit an International and a national Consultant who worked with DG Vicky Tchong and Mana Brigida Soares to prepare the Review. The Review was presented in New York at the High-Level Forum by Minister Fidelis Magalhaes. Roy also supported the Timor-Leste Delegation with the presentation of the VNR. In 2019 the UN also supported the 20th Anniversary of the Referendum – over 200 former UN staff, including Mr Ian Martin and others, came to Timor-Leste. As UN RC, Roy led the arrangements for those events.
In 2020 at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Roy, together with the WHO Representative (Dr Rajesh Pandav) was involved in Briefing the Council of Ministers to prepare for the pandemic. With Dr Rajesh, he advocated for establishing the inter-Ministerial CIGC (Integrated Crisis Response Centre) and also supported the Humanitarian flights into and out of the country. In 2020 the UN also prepared its new Cooperation Framework, which the Council approved of Ministers. Under the leadership of the UNRC, UN agencies supported the implementation of the US $200 support to poorer families and the performance of the first Cesta Basica program. The UN agencies also supported the Socio-Economic Impact Assessment of COVID-19. Roy also initiated work with Minister Fidelis Maghalhaes’ office on Diversification of the Economy with the International Growth Centre (based at the London School of Economics and Oxford University) that report was presented to the Council of Ministers in 2021.
In 2021 the UN RC played a key role in helping respond to the floods, co-chairing Humanitarian Partner Group meetings, putting out weekly updates for all Humanitarian partners and helping the Government of Timor-Leste to launch an Appeal which generated roughly US $30 m of additional humanitarian support to the country. UN agencies also supported the Government’s Post Disaster Needs Assessment work, and COVID-19 response, including the second Socio-Economic Needs Assessment and continued to support the national COVID-19 vaccination programme and work on Nutrition and the Food Systems Summit. In 2021, Roy also accommodated for almost three weeks (at his residence in Scotland) the Timor-Leste Delegation to the COP-26 in Glasgow.
In 2022 the RC led the UN’s work to support the Presidential elections, implementation of the Integrated National Financing Framework (focusing on taxation of alcohol and tobacco, work with the diaspora and opportunities for Blue/Green Growth), provided support to Timor-Leste’s accession to CTBTO, support to the Universal Periodic Review, preparations for the Transforming Education Summit and the Census 2022.
He has co-chaired several of the Government and Development Partner Meetings, including Humanitarian Meetings and the Scaling-Up Nutrition Movement work.
It is worth mentioning that in addition to Roy’s contributions to Timor-Leste’s development, his wife Teresa has supported work with Ahisaun Foundation and the RELOKA organisation (teaching embroidery - SUKU and business skills to Girls with disabilities). His older daughter (Maya) worked as a volunteer with Maluk Timor and Mercy Corps for a year, his youngest daughter did an internship with The Asia Foundation and later set up an arrangement for an exhibition from Timor-Leste to Scotland to support Arte Moris and his nephew (Vijay) did an internship with ILO in Timor-Leste and his partner worked as a Volunteer Doctor with Malu Timor. Vijay also helped set up the Timor-Leste Hockey Association (with kit donated by the England Hockey Federation).
For media inquiries, please contact
Ahmed Saleem, Communications Officer, UN Resident Coordinator’s Office
Email: mohammed.saleem@un.org
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Press Release
15 July 2022
EU-UN Spotlight Initiative funded “safe space” to provide psychosocial support to GBV survivors in Timor-Leste
The “safe space”, one of the Spotlight Initiative’s intervention in Timor-Leste, is a one-stop center offering a comprehensive range of services to survivors – including a safe shelter and psychosocial support.
According to Demographic Health Survey (DHS 2016), 33 per cent of women aged between 15 - 49 years, in Timor-Leste, have experienced physical assault.
However, most GBV cases are under reported to authorities; making the “safe space” an essential center for survivors.
The Health Services of Viqueque Municipality has also designated three health personnel trained in forensic GBV cases to help manage the facility.
“We now have appropriate facilities to accommodate members of the community who experience domestic violence or any form of gender-based violence against women and girls with specialized and dignified services,” said Mr. Franscisco de Carvalho, Director of Health Services in Viqueque Municipality.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Odete Maria Freitas, Minister of Health, reiterated the need for concerted efforts to end gender-based violence – a serious public health and a human rights issue in Timor-Leste.
“We need to pay close attention to end all forms of GBV cases by strengthening the Health Sector’s capacity to prevent and respond to gender-based violence -- since they are normally the first point of contact for GBV cases,” said Dr. Odete Maria Freitas, Minister of Health,Timor-Leste.
Though 59 per cent of ever-partnered women aged 15 - 19 in Timor-Leste experience intimate partner violence at least once in their lifetime, what is more disturbing is that the exact figures might be much higher.
Dr. Domingas Bernardo, UNFPA Timor-Leste Assistant Country Representative noted that UNFPA, in partnership with the Ministry of Health and relevant ministries, research institutions and academia, provide research support related to gender implications on health emergencies to strengthen the availability of evidence -- to inform advocacy and programmatic interventions that are gender-sensitive and responsive.
With recent reports confirming increased cases of violence against women and girls during pandemics and emergencies, the one-of-a-kind “safe space” in Timor-Leste, will help address gender inequality issues and meet the urgent needs of women and girls affected by violence or at risk of violence.
The Spotlight Initiative is a global partnership project between the European Union and the United Nations to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
UNFPA collaborates with implementing partners, women’s right groups and organizations representing most marginalized communities to ensure that the response to pandemics and emergencies does not reproduce or perpetuate harmful gender norms, discriminatory practices and inequalities.
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For more information, contact:
Suleiman Okoth
Communications and Programme Support Specialist
United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Timor-Leste
UN House, Caicoli Street
Dili, Timor-Leste
Mobile: +670 75169796
WhatsApp: +254 780534026
Email; okoth@unfpa.org
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