DILI, 23 october 2021 (TATOLI) – The Government of Timor-Leste, through Bee Timor-Leste, Public Enterprise (BTL, E.P) committed to reaching its goal of ensuring all communities have access to clean water and sanitation.
“BTL is committed to improving the water supply system and promoting 34 water supply system projects approved by the government through the 2021 General State Budge,” Carlos Pelois dos Reis, the President of the BTL, E.P. told TATOLI at the Palace of Government, in Dili, on thursday.
Of the 34 water supply systems projects, some had just started the designing of the Bill of Quality.
Regarding the drainage improvement project in capital Dili, particularly in Masacrinhas and Caicoli neighborhood, Pelois said it was currently under the document validation process.
The projects will focus on enhancing water supply and sanitation services. These projects are consistent with the strategic goals set in the government’s SDP 2011-2030. The project is also aligned with the government’s commitments to meet Sustainable Development Goals 6 (ensure universal access to water and sanitation to all).
Around 75 percent of the population has access to clean water, including 68 percent of the rural communities in the municipalities, according to the data of the 2015 census.
BTL had been cooperating with UNICEF, and Water Aid to improve the water supply system in the country.
Pelois called on partners to cooperate with BTL, E.P. in creating an integrated plan to keep improving the drinking water supply system and sanitation in the country.
“Currently, a team of BTL, E.P is conducting viability study on the water and sanitation improvement projects in the municipalities of Baucau, Manufahi, Viqueque, and Lautem,” said Pelois.
The same viability study would be carried out in the municipalities of Aileu, Liquica, Ermera, Ainaro, Covalima, and Bobonaro.
Journalist: Arminda Fonseca
Editor: Julia Chatarina
Translation: Filomeno Martins
Editor: Nelia Borges Rosario
