DILI, 15 december 2025 (TATOLI) – The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of Timor-Leste have signed $78 million in financing to rehabilitate a vital section of the national road network linking the eastern region to the southern coast.
The financing package consists of a $75 million loan and a $3 million grant aimed at improving road connectivity, facilitating trade, and strengthening resilience along the corridor.
The $3 million grant is provided under the ADB Community Resilience Partnership Program and is financed by the Agence Française de Développement, the Government of Ireland, the Green Climate Fund, the Nordic Development Fund, and the Government of the United Kingdom.
The grant will help villages along the road corridor that are vulnerable to extreme weather events co-lead the design and implementation of locally relevant, small-scale adaptation investments.
The initiative aims to reduce the impacts of natural hazards such as floods while strengthening the capacity of communities and national agencies to design, implement, and maintain resilient infrastructure.
The project will also support the development of national standards and guidelines for integrating community-level green and gray infrastructure into transport investments.
“Building community resilience is essential to safeguarding lives and livelihoods in the face of disasters and climate events,” said ADB Country Director for Timor-Leste Stefania Dina. “This project will empower local communities to take the lead in developing sustainable, adaptive solutions that protect critical infrastructure and support inclusive development.”
The project will restore deteriorated bridges and address flood-related disruptions using innovative engineering and nature-based solutions.
Key upgrades will include improved drainage systems, elevated embankments, natural hazard-adapted asphalt, and bioengineered slopes to reduce landslide risks.
The improvements will enhance road safety, reliability, and efficiency while ensuring smoother travel and stronger regional connectivity.
ADB is a leading multilateral development bank supporting inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth across Asia and the Pacific. Working with its members and partners to solve complex challenges together, ADB harnesses innovative financial tools and strategic partnerships to transform lives, build quality infrastructure, and safeguard our planet. Founded in 1966, ADB is owned by 69 members—50 from the region.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
