KOICA, WFP sign agreement to strengthen school feeding program in Timor-Leste
DILI, 28 August 2026 (TATOLI) — The Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the World Food Program. (WFP) have signed a US$7.2 million financing agreement to strengthen and expand Timor-Leste’s School Feeding Program.
The agreement, signed on Wednesday, will fund a five-year project running from 2026 to 2030.
The project will expand the program to Viqueque municipality, building on approaches that have produced positive results in schools and communities in Baucau, Bobonaro and Manufahi.
The agreement was signed by KOICA’s representative in Timor-Leste, Youn Hwa Kang, and WFP Representative Jacqueline de Groot.
KOICA’s US$7.2 million investment is expected to benefit more than 86,000 people, the document said.
The project will improve school kitchens and dining areas, strengthen rice fortification and expand links between schools and local farmers.
It will also introduce improvements to digital monitoring systems and promote nutrition education among schoolchildren.
The initiative will support 47 farmer groups by helping schools purchase fresh, locally produced food while creating economic opportunities for rural communities.
KOICA, the Government and WFP will continue working to develop a more sustainable school meals system that provides nutritious food to children, strengthens local food systems and supports healthier future generations.
Representatives from the ministries responsible for state administration, education, agriculture, livestock, fisheries and forestry, and foreign affairs and cooperation attended the signing ceremony.
TATOLI
