DILI, 09 April 2026 (TATOLI) — The Government, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), has delivered agricultural equipment to 28 farmer groups in the Administrative Post of Vatulari, aiming to increase production and strengthen the country’s food security.
The initiative, led by the Vice Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs, included the distribution of 28 hand tractors and 28 rice threshing machines, directly benefiting farmers from eight sucos in the region. Each group received one set of equipment to support local agricultural activities.
This support forms part of a pilot program jointly implemented by KONSANTL and FAO, running for two years and covering the municipalities of Covalima and Viqueque.
During the ceremony, held in Afaloikai, the Chief of Staff to the Vice Prime Minister, Arantes Isac Sarmento, highlighted the importance of boosting agricultural production as a pillar of food sovereignty.
Representing the Vice Prime Minister, he underlined the joint efforts of the institutions in identifying beneficiary groups and implementing the programme.
“Timor-Leste is a country of hardworking people. Independence was achieved through struggle, and it is with that same spirit that we must continue working the land, ensuring our own food production and reducing external dependence,” he said.
He also recalled that during the Indonesian period, Vatulari was considered one of the country’s main food-producing areas, stressing the need to restore that strategic role. In this regard, he urged beneficiaries to make proper use of the equipment provided in order to increase productivity.
According to available data, Vatulari has approximately 4,000 hectares of agricultural land, although only around 300 hectares are currently under cultivation.
The event was attended by representatives of KONSANTL, FAO in Timor-Leste, the Ministry of Agriculture, the National Police (PNTL), as well as local and community authorities and members of the public.
Jornalist: Vitorino Lopes da Costa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
