DILI, 21 March 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, José Ramos-Horta, in his message on the occasion of the International Day of Forests, themed ‘Forests and Food,’ stressed the vital role of forests in national development and the lives of the Timorese people.
Horta highlighted the crucial role of forests in ensuring food security for the Timorese people, as they play a vital role in maintaining the ecological basis for food security.
“Our forests are a source of life. They provide us with food, air and water purification, climate regulation, and are home to rich biodiversity,” Horta said in a statement.
In the context of Timor-Leste, the Head of State said that forests play a vital role in agriculture, livestock, and the livelihoods of the rural communities, ensuring not only nutrition but also ecological and economic stability.
“Our country faces significant challenges related to environmental preservation, food security, and sustainable development. Deforestation, soil degradation, and climate change directly impact our ability to produce food and secure a prosperous future for the coming generations. Therefore, we reaffirm our commitment to public policies that promote forest restoration, sustainable management of natural resources, and the strengthening of communities that depend on forests for their survival and livelihood,” said Horta.
Horta highlight the fundamental role of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, Fisheries, and Forestry (MAPPF) and all institutions and organizations that work tirelessly for forest conservation and the development of sustainable agricultural practices: “The tree planting initiative we carried out this year in Balac, Aiteas, in the Municipality of Manatuto, symbolizes not only our environmental responsibility but also the beginning of the annual national reforestation campaign. We hope to see this example replicated in all villages, sucos, posts, municipalities, and regions of the country, with the support of national plant nurseries.”
Protecting Timor-Leste’s Forests
Horta said that the involvement of every citizen, authorities, the private sector, civil society organizations, farmers and entrepreneurs, schools, children, and youth is essential to ensure that “future generations continue to benefit from the natural resources we have today.”
“I invite all families, communities, and institutions to join this national mission of reforestation and sustainable land use,” Horta appealed.
Horta appreciated all the important actions that have been undertaken by various government institutions, organizations, and volunteers to protect Timor-Leste’s forests through tree-planting programs and the reduction of deforestation in the country.
“A special thanks to all forestry producers and farmers who diligently cultivate traditional crops such as talas, cassava, sweet potatoes, coffee, cocoa, mangoes, cashews, bananas, and other fruits that enrich our forests and ensure food security for our people,” he added. “The work of these men and women is crucial in combating malnutrition and promoting sustainable and resilient agriculture.”
Horta ended his message by reiterating his call for the protection of Timor-Leste’s forests, which are the foundation of the Timorese people’s survival, prosperity, and food security.
In 2025, forests and foods is the theme for the day, celebrating the crucial roles of forests in food security, nutrition and livelihoods.
“In addition to providing food, fuel, income and employment, forests support soil fertility, protect water resources, and offer habitats for biodiversity, including vital pollinators. They are essential for the survival of forest-dependent communities, particularly Indigenous Peoples, and contribute to climate change mitigation by storing carbon,” according to FAO.
TATOLI
