Market Event and Gender Equality Competition: Empowering Communities and Promoting Gender Equality

The event showcased the vibrant spirit and entrepreneurial talents of local producers from Covalima and Oecusse. Attendees included the European Union Ambassador, along with representatives from government entities such as SEII, IADE, and MAF, as well as members of civil society organizations (CSOs) and community-based organizations. Their participation underscored the collaborative spirit and collective commitment to advancing development and empowerment initiatives.

Beneficiaries of the POWER (Promotion of Women through Economic Empowerment and Rights) project from Covalima and Oecusse displayed a diverse array of products, including traditional cuisine and handicrafts. Attendees had the opportunity to purchase these items and directly support community producers.

“I am very happy to be able to witness the market which gives space to women farmer groups, as well as women business groups, to showcase their products, and raise awareness about gender equality. It is important to recognize the barriers that many women still face, and that stop them from being successful entrepreneurs,” said the Ambassador of the EU Delegation to Timor-Leste, Marc Fiedrich.

The Market Event and Gender Equality Competition exemplified the mission of the POWER project, which is dedicated to promoting women's economic empowerment and rights. Funded by the European Union, the POWER project targeted the municipalities of Covalima and Oecusse in Timor-Leste. Over a 36-month period from FY2023 to FY2026, this initiative aimed to advance gender equality and socio-economic rights for women and vulnerable populations.