Scaling up SDG action in Timor-Leste through partnership and innovation

  • To accelerate the implementation of the SDGs in Timor-Leste, and advance the six priority areas of the UN Sustainable  Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF), the Resident Coordinator, Funmi Abosede Balogun-Alexander, has initiated the development of joint, evidence-based roadmaps between the UN Country Team (UNCT), government ministries and development partners, known as ‘Investment Cases’. Given that Timor-Leste faces the highest level of malnutrition in Southeast Asia region, the first of these Investment Cases focused on the area of Nutrition and Food Security. By drawing from a wide range of expertise, this set out a whole of system approach to boosting food security across Timor-Leste; mapping out the opportunities and investments needed to reach to SDG2 – the goal of zero hunger within the next seven years. 
     
  • The Resident Coordinator’s engagement with development partners, businesses, civil society organizations, and key government offices has also yielded tangible results and helped forge partnerships, particularly in the area of SDG financing. By focusing on private sector investment as a key driver of economic stability and diversification, the Resident Coordinator has paved the way for stronger climate financing in Timor-Leste and lead to the establishment of Joint Pool Funds, including a Tree Plantation Fund. She also envisions to the development of ‘Marshall Plans’ for the 13 Municipalities in Timor-Leste to accelerate rural development. 
     
  • The Resident Coordinator has also supported the Timor-Leste Civil Protection Agency. the RC mobilized UNDRR’s expertise and was able to ensure that appropriate technical support was provided to the Civil Protection Agency including by  on the Sendai Framework and develop the country's resilience framework.
     
  • The Resident Coordinator has also has been instrumental in supporting the government, through a UN coordinated approach, in parliamentary elections in May 2023. Under her leadership, UNCT mobilized resources to upgrade electoral commission offices, , and support first-time voters with training and support, including supporting access to people with sight impairment to vote. The resulting turn out was high, with over 76% of the eligible population in Timor-Leste voting in May’s peaceful elections. 
     
  • To improve the efficiency of the UN in Timor-Leste’, the Resident Coordinator and the UNCT committed to fully convert the UN Compound to 100 per cent solar power, saving more than $500,000 a year while contributing to a reduction of carbon emissions. As a result, the office of the President of the Republic has sought advice from the UN on making the Presidential Palace transform to solar energy. The Resident Coordinator has also introduced gender-responsive procurement within the UN to strengthen gender equality and support women-led businesses in Timor-Leste.  
Timor-Leste

Funmi Abosede Balogun-Alexander

Resident Coordinator in Timor-Leste