United States Strengthens Food Security in Timor-Leste Through Hand Tractor Distribution

Covalima, September 24, 2024  –  The United States, through its Agency for International Development (USAID), handed over three hand tractors today to farmer groups in the village of Camenasa.  This assistance is part of a larger project which includes distribution of more than 110 pieces of equipment to improve food security and farming efficiency across Timor-Leste.

Associated farmer groups are participating in USAID's ongoing Transforming Agri-food Systems to Enhance Food Security and Resilience to Crisis in Timor-Leste initiative, implemented in partnership with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

USAID/Timor-Leste Mission Director Robert Barton pointed to potential efficiencies gained from using the equipment.  "Appropriate mechanization will allow you to dedicate more time and energy to improving your yields,” he told assembled farmers, “which in turn will lead to increased household income and better livelihoods for your families.”

The USAID initiative is working actively with 7,300 farmer households in the municipalities of Aileu, Ainaro, Baucau, Bobonaro, Covalima, Ermera, Lautem, Manatuto, Manufahi, and Viqueque to enhance local capacity for food production, processing, storage, and packaging.   The initiative also focuses on linking farmers to local and regional markets for better pricing and long-term profitability, an integration crucial for sustainability and for farmers' success.

The activity promotes the principles of nature-positive, nutrition-sensitive, and climate-smart agriculture, seeking to address the interconnected challenges of food security, climate change, and rural development.  Through improved agricultural techniques, farmers will see increased productivity and be better equipped to withstand environmental and economic shocks.

Media Laloran Tasi Mane

24 Setembru, 2024