Dili, September 17, 2025 (Média Democracia) – The State Secretariat for Equality (S.E.I), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), has launched the final report evaluating the Public Transfer Fund (FTP) program that supports women and vulnerable groups in Timor-Leste.
The State Secretary for Equality, Elvina Sousa Carvalho, together with the ADB Country Director for Timor-Leste, Stefania Dina, officially launched the final results of the evaluation on 12 September 2025 at Suai Room, Timor Plaza.
“The Women’s Economic Empowerment Program marks a crucial step in Timor-Leste’s commitment to promoting gender equality and economically empowering women and vulnerable groups. Initiated by S.E.I, the program has provided significant financial and technical support to women, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals through the Public Transfer Fund mechanism,” said State Secretary for Equality, Elvina Sousa Carvalho.
She added that these grants have opened diverse opportunities for beneficiaries to establish and strengthen micro and small businesses, creating pathways to self-reliance, resilience, and community impact.
“The final evaluation, carried out in collaboration with the Asian Development Bank, provides critical insights into the successes and challenges of the program to date. It sheds light on areas requiring further improvement, particularly in supporting investment in viable sectors, strengthening capacity-building efforts, and enhancing government programs. These lessons can serve as guiding tools for future direction,” she continued.
The State Secretary reaffirmed S.E.I’s commitment to further improving the Women’s Economic Empowerment Program through stronger coordination, targeted support, and responsive policies. She stressed that this foundation would help broaden economic opportunities and ensure that no one is left behind on Timor-Leste’s path toward an inclusive and equitable future.
For her part, ADB Country Director for Timor-Leste, Stefania Dina, expressed deep appreciation for S.E.I’s leadership and strong commitment to women’s economic empowerment.
“The Asian Development Bank remains committed to work closely with S.E.I and all stakeholders to further strengthen inclusive economic opportunities in Timor-Leste, ensuring that no one is left behind,” said ADB Country Director Stefania Dina.
She added that ADB will continue the collaboration with S.E.I to help build a future where women and all vulnerable groups in Timor-Leste are empowered.
The launch ceremony was also attended by representatives from Municipal Women’s Associations, development partners, and other invited guests. The participants expressed gratitude to ADB for its support, which has enabled the program to achieve highly positive results in Timor-Leste.
Report by: Nelfiano
Photo: S.E.I Media