Aileu, July 22, 2025 (Média Democracia) – In a statement delivered by ADB President Masato Kanda following his visit to the Viveirus coffee and agroforestry groups in Aileu Municipality, he expressed pride in the dedication of the local communities.
“My visit to regions of Timor-Leste where coffee production is growing has shown how ADB’s Coffee and Agroforestry Livelihood Improvement Project (CALIP) is transforming lives and strengthening communities across municipalities. I’ve seen how this innovative project is revitalizing the non-oil export sector, which is crucial for the country’s future,” said ADB President Masato Kanda.
At the Madabenu 2 agricultural demonstration site, he met with coffee farmers who spoke proudly about the new techniques they had learned through CALIP’s comprehensive training program.
“These farmers, part of a group of 80 receiving support under the project, showed me how they are cultivating coffee alongside nutrient-rich trees, creating agroforestry systems that enhance both food security and income,” said President Kanda.
He added that, as ADB President, he was deeply inspired by the farmers’ enthusiasm and their ability to explain their demonstration plans, which serve as learning hubs where knowledge spreads throughout the wider community.
“During my visit to Timor’s coffee processing facilities, I saw how CALIP is enhancing coffee value chains. These facilities represent improvements in quality and market linkages that help farmers receive better prices for their coffee. Local processors explained how the project supports coffee festivals and quality competitions,” Kanda affirmed.
He noted that the project reflects ADB’s commitment to supporting economic diversification in Timor-Leste beyond reliance on oil. By helping 2,000 coffee-farming households increase productivity and access to better markets, CALIP contributes to an ambitious goal: doubling coffee production and increasing export value by 270% by 2030.
The confidence shown by farmers in their future was evident throughout the visit, as they spoke of seeing themselves as stewards of their land, working to build sustainable living conditions that will benefit generations to come.
Reporter: Domingas
Photo: Domingas