UNDP Handed Over 12 Community Infrastructure Facilities, Improving the Lives of Over 32,000 People

The symbolic handover ceremony was held at Ensibo Basico Central (EBC) school in Haoufe, Oe-cusse, together with partners and community beneficiaries.

UNDP Timor-Leste

UNDP, together with the Government of Timor-Leste and the Government of Japan, marked the completion and handover of 12 community infrastructure facilities constructed in Bobonaro, Ermera, Liquica, and Oe-cusse under the Community Infrastructure for Resilience Project (CIReP).

The symbolic handover ceremony was held at  Ensibo Basico Central (EBC) school in Haoufe, Oe-cusse, and attended by His Excellency Mr. Mateus dos Santos Tallo, Secretary of State for Local Development, representing the Ministry of State Administration; His Excellency YAMAMOTO Yasushi, Ambassador of Japan; Honorable Mr. Francisco Loca, Regional Secretary for Planning and Development of Oe-Cusse/RAEOA; Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative; and representatives of national government, local authorities, and community beneficiaries.

The constructed facilities were inaugurated by His Excellency Mr. Mateus dos Santos Tallo, Secretary of State for Local Development (middle), His Excellency YAMAMOTO Yasushi, Ambassador of Japan (right), and Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative (left)

UNDP Timor-Leste

Launched in 2023, CIReP aims to strengthen the resilience of rural communities by improving infrastructure and access to essential services in health, education, irrigation, water supply, and sanitation. The 12 facilities handed over will improve access to these services for more than 32,000 people across 4 municipalities, contributing to safer, healthier, and more resilient communities.

Beyond the physical infrastructure, CIReP generated meaningful socioeconomic benefits for local communities. Through the Community Employment Scheme (CES), approximately 1,200 community members took part in a 10-day employment programme, gaining short-term employment , strengthening their vocational skills, and actively participating in the development of their own communities.

Looking ahead, the project will continue to support these communities through operation and maintenance training for community groups and local authorities, building their capacity to manage and sustain the infrastructure for years to come.

" We are investing not only in physical structures, but in local ownership and long-term sustainability. These units will be managed by local authorities and communities, because sustainable development starts at the suco level. " said Mr. Mateus dos Santos Tallo, Secretary of State for Local Development.

" These assets mean safer water, better sanitation, safer travel, reduced erosion and flooding, and a place for community life – It is deeply gratifying for Japan to support these efforts and to help improve daily life in Oecusse and beyond" said His Excellency YAMAMOTO Yasushi, Ambassador of Japan

"By working together, we have laid the foundations for stronger communities, improved public services, and greater resilience for future generations," said Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative. "UNDP remains committed to supporting the people and the Government of Timor-Leste in building a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable future."

The 12 facilities handed over will improve access to these services for more than 32,000 people across 4 municipalities, contributing to safer, healthier, and more resilient communities.

UNDP Timor-Leste