During the fight for independence in East Timor many crops and food stocks were destroyed and many people fled into the forests and mountains.

This has left many without shelter and 64% of the population suffering from food insecurity. Health standards are similarly poor in East Timor with 44% of children aged under five underweight and the incidence of Tuberculosis and AIDS rising steeply. It is vital for the recovery of the East Timorese people that food production and health facilities are improved.

To address widespread food insecurity UnitingWorld with our partner, Protestant Church in East Timor, provides struggling communities with sustainable farming methods, training and equipment to enable farmers to produce crops and rear animals. Project activities include agriculture training, the provision of boats and fishing equipment as well as equipment needed for farming. This is paralleled by a micro-credit program supplying small loans for the establishment of small businesses such as roadside kiosks and furniture making.

UnitingWorld also supports a number of health programs. This includes two medical centres, a village health program and a full time nurse to implement preventative health care.

To download a project information sheet please click here.