DILI, 16 october 2024 (TATOLI) – Jacqueline de Groot was appointed Country Director and Representative for the World Food Program (WFP) in Timor-Leste on 20 september 2024.
She replaced the previous WFP representative, Alba Cecilia Garzon Olivarez, to oversee the organization’s multi-million dollar operations, in support of the government’s efforts to improve the country’s food security and nutrition situation.
The newly appointed Representative and Country Director of WFP, Jacqueline de Groot presented her letter of credence to the President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, in a meeting held at the Presidential Palace, in Dili, on october 3. Last month, Groot also presented her credential letter to the Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation (MoFAC), Francisco Guterres.
Groot said she would be fully committed to working in partnership with the government to address the critical challenges of nutrition and food security in the country.
“Our work will focus on empowering communities to build resilience, ensuring that every Timorese—especially women and children—has access to nutritious, sustainable food that fosters a healthy and prosperous future,” Groot said.
Throughout her 20-year career span with WFP, Jacqueline has served both in Headquarter capacities and in the field.
Prior to moving to Timor-Leste, she was Deputy Country Director for WFP Laos, Head of Programme for WFP in Jordan and held various positions in WFP’s Headquarters in Rome, including as Special Assistant to the Assistant Executive Director for Resource Management and in oversight functions. Prior to working for WFP, Jacqueline worked for UNESCO and the Dutch government.
Jacqueline is a Dutch national. She holds a Masters in Psychology from Leiden University. She speaks English, French, Dutch and Italian.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
