Govt opens new health clinic to improve access in rural Baucau
DÍLI, 16 October 2026 (TATOLI) — Timor-Leste has opened a new health clinic in Uato-Haco village, Venilale Administrative Post, Baucau Municipality, to improve access to primary healthcare for rural communities.
Health Minister Élia A. A. dos Reis Amaral inaugurated the Ariana Health Clinic on 16 October, saying the facility would bring medical services closer to residents, particularly those living far from existing health centres.
The new facility includes a fully equipped clinic with medical and non-medical supplies, as well as accommodation for health professionals to support their continued presence in the area and ensure services are available to the local population.
Nine health professionals have been assigned to the clinic, which will provide services including follow-up care for children, pregnant women and older people. It will also conduct integrated health outreach activities within the community.
The opening supports the Ninth Constitutional Government’s commitment to expanding primary healthcare, particularly in remote areas. The government’s programme sets a target of ensuring that villages, known locally as sucos, with populations of 1,500 to 2,000 people have access to a health clinic providing a comprehensive range of services.
During the inauguration, Amaral urged health workers to provide quality care and organise community outreach programmes, particularly for people who face difficulties travelling to the clinic.
She also called on local authorities to encourage residents to seek medical attention as soon as they become ill, stressing the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
Baucau Municipal Authority President Veneranda Eurico Lemos Martins welcomed the new facility, saying it would reduce the distance residents need to travel to obtain healthcare. She also urged the community to help protect and maintain the clinic.
Amaral also highlighted Timor-Leste’s progress in tackling communicable diseases. In July 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) certified the country as malaria-free after indigenous transmission had been interrupted for at least three consecutive years.
In September 2026, the WHO also validated Timor-Leste’s elimination of trachoma as a public health problem, marking further progress in disease prevention.
To address non-communicable diseases, the minister encouraged residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, including engaging in regular physical activity.
The government, through the Ministry of Health, plans to continue upgrading healthcare infrastructure across Baucau Municipality. Planned projects include opening additional health facilities in Uacala and Baguia, improving services at the Baucau Vila Health Centre and rehabilitating Riamari Maternity Hospital.
The inauguration was attended by the president of the Baucau Municipal Authority, representatives of the National Police of Timor-Leste, health ministry officials, local authorities, religious leaders, health professionals, students and community members.
TATOLI
