Dili, June 20, 2026 (Media Democracia) – Alola Foundation Celebrates 25th Anniversary, Reaffirms Commitment to Promote Health, Education, Economic Empowerment and Protection of Women’s and Children’s Rights in Timor-Leste
Alola Foundation founder, Kirsty Sword Gusmão, said that throughout its 25-year journey, the foundation has made major contributions to social change and community development through health, education and advocacy programs.
“On the occasion of this 25th anniversary, Alola Foundation’s objective is to continue working with partners to improve community livelihoods and contribute to sustainable development in Timor-Leste. Alola Foundation began its work with a strong focus on promoting exclusive breastfeeding, which is considered very important for the health of mothers and babies.” Kirsty told journalists at Delta Nova Hall, Dili, on Friday (19/06).
That program started in 2002-2003 and later became an important part of the foundation’s strategy to improve nutrition and children’s health in Timor-Leste. In addition, it also developed programs such as mobile libraries for rural areas, community training, and initiatives to promote women’s economic independence.
She said early detection is very important. When an illness is detected early, the chance of treatment and health recovery is much higher. In the health area the foundation continues to focus on prevention and early detection of serious illnesses, so she appeals to the community not to ignore symptoms and to seek medical assistance quickly at clinics or hospitals.
At the same venue, Alola Foundation Executive Director Maria Guteres said the presentation reinforced the importance of health education and active community participation to improve quality of life and public health in Timor-Leste.
“Initiatives like this are important to raise public awareness about disease prevention and promote healthy lifestyles. As a speaker, she also presented research results that show positive progress in maternal and child health. The data reveals that the exclusive breastfeeding rate increased from 30.7% to 44%. This result is considered an impact of health education and awareness programs implemented in communities over a period of time.” she added.
Health education must start in the family and continue in the formal education system. Investment in health education will help communities develop healthy habits and increase their capacity to prevent diseases that can be avoided. So health education and awareness play a very important role in improving community well-being and reducing pressure on the public health system.
Meanwhile, Secretary of State for Equality SEI Elvina Sousa Carvalho expressed appreciation for Alola Foundation because for many years the organization has continued to support communities through scholarship programs, education support, health promotion and activities that give people opportunities to develop their capacity.
“Alola Foundation is considered a transformative organization that has made an important contribution to social change and improving community livelihoods. This is an important opportunity to continue promoting community well-being and rights, and we appreciate the positive impact Alola Foundation has made for Timorese society.” said Elvina Sousa.
She stated that prevention is key to reducing cases of violence and creating a safe environment for everyone. It is very important to continue providing education and building community awareness about gender-based violence with knowledge and positive attitudes, which can create a society free from violence.
The Government will continue to work together to implement gender-based violence prevention strategies through the involvement of local authorities, families, community leaders and relevant institutions.
Reporting: Trainees Leozalia and Juliana
Photo: Trainee Juliana