Transforming Timor-Leste: Red Cross Brings Clean Water and Hope to Villages

In the villages of Timor-Leste, access to clean water is not just a luxury — it’s a matter of survival. For years, families in remote areas have faced the daily struggle of collecting water, sometimes walking up to four kilometers just to fill a few containers. The long trek affected their health, well-being, and quality of life, especially for vulnerable groups like mothers, children, and the elderly.

In Makadique, a village in Viqueque Municipality, life took a turn for the better when the Timor-Leste Red Cross (CVTL) began a transformative water supply project in 2016. The project, which has benefited 15 villages and provided clean water to over 4,000 people, has not only alleviated the burden of water collection but also improved public health and hygiene. Makadique now has a dependable water system, featuring 80 tap-stands, five large water tanks, and a local Facility Management Group (GMF) that ensures the system remains in good working order.

Mr. Placio da Silva from the Makadique Health Post expressing his gratitude to CVTL for their steady supply of clean waters (Photo: CVTL/2024)

For the community, the impact as been profound. The Makadique Health Post, which once struggled to provide safe care, now benefits from a steady supply of clean water. Mr. Placio da Silva, the Health Post Head, shared his gratitude, saying, “Thanks to CVTL, our healthcare services are now safer, cleaner, and more effective. This project has made a profound difference in our lives.”

The project has not stopped in Makadique; CVTL is now working on another vital water supply infrastructure in Mindelo Village, Turiskai Administrative Post, Manufahi Municipality. Stretching five kilometers from a natural water spring to the village, the project is bringing hope to residents who have endured years of water scarcity. The collaboration between the CVTL Water and Sanitation (WATSAN) team, Facility Management Group (GMF), and residents has created a sense of excitement in the community, as they eagerly await relief. Yet, the work is challenging, poor road conditions and frequent rain often delays progress, making transportation of materials difficult.

Community volunteers and WASH team in action assisting in the development of water supply infrastructure. (Photo: CVTL/2024)

Despite the challenges, CVTL remains committed to its mission, with Ms. Rosalia, CVTL Manufahi Branch Coordinator, emphasizing, “CVTL doesn’t work alone; we have our technical WATSAN team to assist the community in this essential work.”

Through these efforts, the lives of many Timorese villagers are being transformed. The provision of clean water is not just about survival; it’s about giving families the chance to thrive and build healthier, safer futures.