Dili 29 January 2026 (Média Democracia) – In 2025, the Secretary of State for Equality supported a total of $65,000 to 30 women’s groups in rural areas, enabling them to carry out activities to sustain their family’s needs.
General Director of the Secretary of State for equality, Armando da Costa, stated that in 2025, the Secretary of State for Equality supported a total of $65,000 to rural women’s groups to help sustain their family’s needs.
“Last year, we supported a total of $65,000 in rotational funds to 30 women’s groups from 13 Municipality, to support their activities such as Gardening, Tais weaving, Opening stall, so they can earn income to sustain their family’s needs,” said General Director of the Secretary of State for equality, Armando da Costa, to journalists at Suia Room, Wednesday(29/01).
The Director stated that the Secretary of State for Equality allocates funds every year to support women’s groups in the municipalities, but it’s based on proposals submitted by the groups to the Directorate. For Example, they request funding support for a certain amount to carry out specific activities. Once the proposal is received, S.E.I will verify the document, and those that meet the criteria or registation requirements are the ones that will receive funding.
The Director informed that each group will receive funds depending on their group activity to facilitate their business activities moving forward.
“The important activities including tais weaving, clothes sewing, and animal husbandry like pigs, chickens, and other activities that generate income for the family. S.E.I also supports vunerable people, especially those with disabilities who lack strength for daily activities, with some funding to facilitate their daily needs.” General Director of the Secretary of State for equality informed.
In 2026, the Secretary of State for Equality will continue to support with $800,000 in rotational funds for 400 rural women’s groups. This supports provided by S.E.I to to empower rural women to engage in business activities, so that they can earn a small income.
Reporting : Estefania
Photo Estefania