DILI, 19 december 2025 (TATOLI) – The World Bank continues to back Timor-Leste’s efforts to improve road access, safety, and climate resilience under the TLBRP, including the Gleno–Letefoho road rehabilitation, now in the procurement process.
In an online interview with TATOLI, the World Bank Representative in Timor-Leste, David Freedman, said the procurement process for the Gleno–Letefoho road segment applies policies that emphasize environmental, social and economic sustainability.
Freedman said that once these policy requirements are met, the World Bank is expected to support the government in strengthening procurement capacity, ensuring value for money, safeguarding integrity and achieving sustainable development outcomes.
Meanwhile, the Minister of Public Works (MOP), Samuel Marçal, said the rehabilitation project for the Gleno–Letefoho road remains under review by the National Procurement Commission (CNA) and is awaiting feedback from the World Bank before implementation can begin.
Marçal acknowledged that the current rainy season has further worsened road conditions in the area. He said the road, which was previously paved, is now severely damaged, disrupting public transport and raising concerns among local communities.
He noted that public criticism has emerged on social media, with some questioning the Ministry’s response to the deteriorating conditions. However, Marçal clarified that while the MOP is the project owner, the procurement process involves the CNA and other relevant ministries.
The minister added that he has conducted site visits and found the situation to be serious. He said both the community and the government are deeply concerned after witnessing the poor condition of the road firsthand.
According to official data, the Gleno–Letefoho road construction and rehabilitation project is financed through a US$40 million loan from World Bank.
The Gleno–Letefoho road construction and rehabilitation project is backed by a US$40 million loan from the World Bank.
The project is regarded as a key step toward infrastructure development aligned with environmental, social and economic sustainability principles, while also addressing the urgent transport needs of Ermera residents who have long faced challenges due to deteriorating road conditions.
Journalist: Cidalia Fátima
Editor: Armandina Moniz
Translation: Camilio de Sousa
