Timor-Leste is among the world's most climate-affected nations, with rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and frequent disasters deepening poverty, food insecurity, and gender-based violence – particularly in rural areas.
The Climate Action and Building Resilience in Timor-Leste project is helping communities adapt to the growing impacts of climate change while addressing the intersecting vulnerabilities faced by women, young people and people with disabilities.
About the Climate Action and Building Resilience in Timor-Leste project
The project has helped communities withstand economic and climate shocks while improving overall wellbeing. Across seven municipalities, thousands of people have strengthened their livelihoods, food security and climate preparedness.
Access to clean water also improved significantly, with new or rehabilitated systems in five villages providing reliable water and improving both health and food security.
Communities have also taken action to prevent and respond to gender-based violence, while disaster preparedness has advanced through participatory mapping, planning and stronger local governance.
Key impacts
4,125 people
now have improved access to clean water.
980 participants
trained in savings and financial management.
3,677 people
engaged in gender equality training and 641 survivors were supported through Safe Houses.
120 community members
were involved in disaster preparedness planning.
Adelia's story
Adelia's story
With your support, Adelia joined the Climate Action and Building Resilience in Timor-Leste Project, implemented by our local partner Caritas Diocesana Baucau.
The project introduced her to financial literacy training and helped her gain access to community savings and loans through a local group known as HAROHAN.
Adelia applied what she learned immediately and received a $1,000 loan, which she used to open a motorbike repair workshop – a service much needed in her community.
Though she had never run a business before, Adelia managed the workshop with determination. She handled the finances, oversaw daily operations, and gradually built a loyal customer base. Within months, her workshop was earning enough for her to cover school expenses and household needs.
Adelia sitting near her motorbike repair shop. Photo: Caritas Diocesana Bacau.
I hope we can improve the lives of our community, especially women who lead their households alone. I want to help others start small businesses, support their children’s education, and be prepared for future challenges like disasters and agricultural needs.
Along with your generous support, this program is also supported by the Australian Government, through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP).
