Sustainable Development Goals
The Challenge
Ainaro, one of 13 municipalities of Timor-Leste, in the southwest part of the country. Its capital is the city of Ainaro, a small mountain town.
The Ainaro Parish has access to agricultural land managed by the Parish Priest with support from two workers, but the Priest’s limited time means the farm lacks consistent guidance and strategic direction. Although a reliable irrigation source exists, the land remains underutilised and underproductive, reflecting broader agricultural challenges in Timor‑Leste such as low productivity, limited technical support, and weak management systems. Without regular oversight, improved practices, or structured planning, the farm will continue to fall short of its potential despite having good natural resources. To address this, two farm workers will receive direct mentoring from the volunteer, who will work closely with them and with other interested farmers to introduce new and improved farming techniques.
How We’re Helping
Palms is recruiting qualified and experienced Agriculture/Farming Mentors for Ainaro Parish who will build the skills and confidence of the two parish farm workers—and other interested local farmers, using practical hands-on mentoring in improved, sustainable, and climate‑appropriate agriculture. This will lead the development of the parish farmland into a reliable, year‑round source of vegetables and staple crops that will help ensure the parish farms produce a consistent source of food and nutrition, enabling kindergarten students and 40 student‑boarders to receive the essential meals they need while at school.
Is the Project Sustainable?
The seeds of knowledge planted during the Palms placement will bear fruit through community sharing. This will continue to develop the parish farms and provide a secure source of nutrition and income into the future.
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