Baucau, 21 March 2026 – The Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (CVTL), in partnership with the Civil Society Support Office (GASC), officially inaugurated a new water supply system serving the community of Uatú-Ua Sub-Village, Gariwai Village, Baucau Municipality.
The inauguration ceremony was led by CVTL President, Mrs. Madalena F.M.H. Costa Soares, alongside GASC Coordinator Mr. Joaquim da Costa Freitas and a representative of the Baucau Municipal Authority.
Speaking during the event, the GASC Coordinator Mr.Joaquim da Costa Freitas emphasized the importance of water in daily life, noting that access to clean water not only sustains life but also eases household responsibilities. He expressed appreciation to CVTL for supporting government efforts to bring sustainable development to communities, and voiced hope that the system will serve residents for many years.
CVTL President Mrs. Madalena highlighted that the initiative aims to improve access to clean water and enhance overall community well-being. The newly installed system serves 184 households, benefiting a total population of 854 people, with a 6.6-kilometer pipeline connecting the water source to the community.
She further explained that the project goes beyond infrastructure by supporting sustainability through training for GMF (community management) groups. “This system especially helps mothers by reducing the burden of collecting water, while also empowering communities to manage and maintain the resource effectively,” she said. She also noted that as the population grows, the number of beneficiaries continues to increase.
The Village Chief (Sefe Suku) of Gariwai Mr. Arlindo Freitas expressed gratitude to GASC and CVTL, highlighting the challenges residents previously faced, particularly during the dry season. Community members often had to walk long distances to rivers to collect water for daily use. “Today, clean water is available right in front of our homes,” he said.
The ceremony was attended by representatives from local authorities and institutions, including CVTL leadership, the Secretary General, Director of SMASA, the PNTL Commander of Baucau Municipality, the Administrative Post Authority of Venilale, CVTL Baucau Branch officials, staff, volunteers, and community members.
This water project was successfully implemented by CVTL with the support of GASC, marking an important step toward improving living conditions and strengthening community resilience in Baucau.
