Kiwa Restore project : 2 new partnerships to restore coastal ecosystems and empower local communities in Timor-Leste

Conservation International Timor-Leste (CI-TL) has formed new partnerships with Konservasaun Flora no Fauna (KFF) and the Alola Foundation to restore coastal ecosystems and empower local communities in Timor-Leste. This collaboration is part of the KIWA RESTORE project, which aims to strengthen the adaptive capacity and economic resilience of Pacific Islanders through community-based coastal ecosystem restoration in Fiji, Samoa, and Timor-Leste.

KFF will spearhead efforts to restore and maintain coastal ecosystems in the municipalities of Bobonaro and Liquica. Targeted areas include the villages of Sanirin, Aidabaleten, Batugade in Bobonaro, and Ulmera in Liquica. KFF will lead the restoration of approximately 6 ha of mangroves in Batugade Village, 50 ha in Sanirin Village, 17 ha in Ulmera Village, and 9 ha in Aidabaleten Village.

The Alola Foundation will promote sustainable livelihoods through training and market access, empowering women and enhancing community resilience. The Foundation's Economic Development Program provides opportunities for women across Timor-Leste to participate in economic life through small business, cooperative producer groups, and finance education.