Resource information
This revised agricultural policy and strategic framework provides a coherent policy framework to address the key challenges in Timor-Leste. The Government recognizes that there is no simple "solution by technology". The Government will therefore re-orient agricultural and rural development policies that will redefine incentives and reduce barriers to food and agricultural systems transformation. Particular attention will be given to supporting small-scale, low-income farmers in strengthening their capacity to manage risks and adopt effective strategies to adapt to climate change. A key feature of this agricultural policy is a fundamental shift from a 'technology solution' to an integrated approach to the food and agriculture system. Central to achieving food security and sector growth is a shift towards diversification of agriculture with alternative, nutrient and climate-resilient crops with the potential to generate income, as well as the need for self-sufficiency in food (not just rice).Policy Vision: By 2030, Timor-Leste will have nutritious, climate-resilient, economically viable and sustainable agro-food systems that will contribute to the eradication of hunger and all forms of malnutrition. Policy Objectives: Based on the lessons learned since 2004, policy objectives have been adapted and updated to fit the new realities of the country. A new political objective (institutional development) has been added. The objectives of the policy are fully aligned with - and aim to contribute to the following Sustainable Development Objectives (ODS): ODS 1: Eradicate poverty; ODS 2: Eradicate hunger and improve nutrition (the Prime Minister announced ODS 2 as a central priority); ODS 3: health and well-being; ODS 5: gender equality; ODS 8: Employment and economic growth and ODS 15: Protect, restore and promote the sustainable use of ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification and halt and reverse land degradation and loss of biodiversity.The policy objectives are: 1. Improving the availability and access to nutritious, diversified and secure food and food security for the rural population; 2. Increasing linkages between farmers and market opportunities through the development of the value chain, as well as improved community and private sector participation; 3. Increasing rural incomes and decent employment, especially for young people and women; 4. The income from the export of goods and import substitution; 5. Sustainable management and use of natural resources, including land, forests, coastal and marine areas and biodiversity, to provide ecological, social and economic benefits for the Timorese people; 6. Improving the institutional development of the agricultural sector to create a conducive environment and support services.The Government's goal is to introduce a "modern" agricultural extension strategy based on the successful history of the FFS approach to applied research and participatory extension tested and demonstrated by the USAID/DADE-funded FAO project, "Improving Food and Nutrition. Nutrition Security and Reducing Disaster Risk through the Promotion of Conservation Agriculture "(2013-2017); Management of natural resources and climate change.
