In a recent visit to the RAEOA Beneficiary Group (Oecussi) in the beginning of February, Cruz Vermelha de Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste Red Cross – CVTL) witnessed first-hand the impact and progress achieved through the implementation activities and the distribution of materials among its members. The group’s structure and the dedication of its members drew appreciation from CVTL, who have been instrumental in supporting essential initiatives. A notable outcome of this support is the emergence of collaborative efforts among women within the group, fostering organization and joint planning.
Ermelinda Caunono, a 43-year-old who helps with logistics for Afmet (Naimeco) group in Oecussi, expressed her joy “I am very happy as a member of this group. We are learning so much in the training sessions including, First Aid, Disaster Management, Gender, Savings and Money Loans.” Ermelinda emphasized the program’s role in enhancing her skills and confidence, enabling her to collaborate effectively with fellow women to pursue shared dreams.
CVTL’s support extended beyond training, encompassing the provision of essential equipment such as weaving and sewing machines, along with saving boxes. The tangible impact of this support is evident in the group’s collective savings, which has reached $478 The group’s entrepreneurial spirit shone through the sale of hand-woven traditional cloth (tais), generating an additional $20 in income.
As the program approaches its conclusion, the commitment of the Beneficiary Group remains unwavering. Ermelinda expressed the group’s dedication to sustaining their momentum, underscoring the significance of the program in fostering unity and economic empowerment. The Romansa group, forged through this initiative, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of CVTL’s support in RAEOA.
The success of the program can be attributed to the collaboration between CVTL and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Timor-Leste, with a focus on 38 identified women groups across 20 villages. The program, made possible with IOM’s support, aims to empower women by providing targeted resources and opportunities for growth.
