UNFPA, Government reaffirm commitment to women’s health with handover of essential maternal medicines and contraceptives
DÍLI, 10 September 2026 (TATOLI) — Today, the Government of Timor-Leste, through the Ministry of Health, and UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund, marked the official handover of critical contraceptives and maternal health medicines at the National Institute for Pharmacy and Medicines (INFPM).
The delivery reinforces a shared commitment to safeguarding sexual and reproductive health and rights and advancing sustainable healthcare financing across the nation.
The supplies include medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable contraceptives, Implanon NXT, and misoprostol. These commodities are essential for preventing unintended pregnancies, supporting safe pregnancy and childbirth, and ensuring quality care for women and families.
A central theme of the handover was Timor-Leste’s progressive transition toward domestic ownership and sustainable health financing. Since 2022, the Government of Timor-Leste has allocated approximately US$1.2 million for the procurement of sexual and reproductive health commodities through a Third-Party Procurement mechanism.
To support this transition, UNFPA has leveraged an innovative Match Fund mechanism, complementing the government’s investment with approximately US$1.1 million. This model creates a practical bridge between current external support and stronger, long-term domestic financing.
Paulina Mendonca Maher, Executive Director INFPM, said: “For the INFPM and the Ministry of Health, these commodities are not simply medicines and medical supplies. They are essential tools for protecting women’s health, preventing unintended pregnancies, and supporting safe motherhood. We believe that every dollar invested in sexual and reproductive health generates benefits far beyond the health sector. Therefore, investment in reproductive health is an investment in the future of Timor-Leste.”
UNFPA and the Ministry of Health continue to collaborate beyond procurement, focusing heavily on forecasting, supply planning, and inventory management. The true measure of success for this partnership is ensuring that a woman entering a health facility anywhere in the country—from Dili to remote communities like Baucau or Ermera—has immediate access to the essential care she requires without facing shortages or delays.
Aleksandar (Sasha) Bodiroza, UNFPA Regional Director a.i. for Asia and the Pacific, emphasized: “These items represent far more than medicines and contraceptives: they represent choice, dignity and the opportunity for women and girls to live healthier and safer lives. When a woman can decide if and when she becomes pregnant, she gains greater control over her health, her family, and her future. Let us continue to move forward together – from access today, towards sustainable access for tomorrow.”
As Timor-Leste broadens its regional engagement, the Ministry of Health and UNFPA remain committed to building a resilient health system, exploring further innovative financing, and ensuring that no woman or girl is left behind.
TATOLI
