DILI, 04 September 2025 (TATOLI) – The Governments of Timor-Leste and Australia today broke ground on a second demonstration road project using fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) technology in Aldeia Rileco, Suku Maubisse, Ainaro.
The ceremony was officiated by Samuel Marçal, Minister of Public Works, alongside officials from the Australian Embassy in Timor-Leste, the President of the Ainaro Municipal Authority, Manuela Georgina Carmo Bucar Corte Real, government representatives, community leaders, and residents of Aldeia Rileco, Suku Maubisse.
This project, along with the FRC demonstration site in Railaku, Ermera, is part of a partnership between Timor-Leste and Australia implemented through the PARTISIPA program. It aims to test innovative, climate-resilient road technologies to strengthen infrastructure and support communities across the country.
The Ainaro initiative will upgrade 2 kilometers of rural road from gravel to FRC, providing stronger, longer-lasting access to markets, schools, and essential services. The Ministry of Public Works is committed to scaling up this technology nationwide to improve rural connectivity and stimulate local economic growth.
“Rural areas are a priority of the IX Constitutional Government, and the Ministry I lead places great importance on improving service quality. Through our collaboration with the Australian Government under PARTISIPA, we are working to enhance service delivery and implement systems that reflect the real conditions of Timor-Leste. This work will not end here –similar efforts will continue in other regions,” Minister of Public Works Samuel Marçal said.
These demonstration projects align with Timor-Leste’s Strategic Development Plan and the IX Constitutional Government’s priorities to rehabilitate road networks and engage local contractors in rural development.
Implementation will be led by the Ministry of Public Works and Ainaro Municipal Services, with technical and financial support from Australia through the PARTISIPA program. Oversight will be provided by a joint Project Management Committee composed of representatives from both governments and local authorities.
“This collaboration reflects the strength of 25 years of friendship and cooperation between Australia and Timor-Leste –a partnership dedicated to supporting development, resilience, and prosperity for the Timorese people. This is about Australia helping Timor-Leste build stronger, safer, and more sustainable roads. Australia is proud to work in partnership with the Government of Timor-Leste, especially the Ministry of Public Works at both national and municipal levels, to strengthen infrastructure development through innovation and capacity building. More than technology, this is about building local expertise, engaging communities, and laying the foundation for long-term collaboration. We believe that by working together –governments, engineers, communities, and partners –we can deliver better, safer roads that serve the people of Timor-Leste for generations to come,” Chargé d’Affaires Edward Wilkinson of the Australian Embassy said.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Rafael Ximenes de A. Belo
