Supporting Better Health in East Timor

MCHS supports  efforts to making a difference to health outcomes for the people of East Timor.

MCHS was invited to work in partnership with the cities of Moreland and Hume to support community health projects in East Timor. In 2000, the Cities of Moreland and Hume entered into a friendship relationship with the District of Aileu to provide long term community to community support to help in building local democracy and a sustainable future. An MOU reaffirming this relationship for the next three years was signed in May 2010. MCHS contributes to the Friends of Aileu Community Committee.

Although much progress has been made since independence in 2002, many challenges still remain. The health needs of the East Timorese people are profound, with high maternal and infant mortality rates. Too many women die in childbirth and too many children die before the age of five. Problems commonly associated with low health status in least developed countries are all in evidence: high rates of water-borne diseases including recurring malaria and diarrhoea, high incidence of respiratory diseases,  compounded by a shortage of medical facilities and skilled health care workers, and problems with accessing medical care due to lack of transport.   Food shortages and hunger still occur periodically resulting in malnutrition, particularly amongst young children. Lack of clean water and sanitation hinders success in eradicating preventable illnesses and disease in rural areas.

The impact of decades of conflict is still in evidence. There are many health problems suffered by ex-political prisoners and those who were actively involved in the struggle for independence. Torture and a lack of access to medical care have resulted in longstanding physical and psychological problems for many former prisoners.

As a partner to the Friends of Aileu, MCHS’s support in collaboration with the Cities of Moreland and Hume is primarily focussed on the Aileu District, located south of the capital Dili. Aileu, the main township in the district is situated in a beautiful river valley, about an hour’s journey from Dili along winding mountain roads. Aileu District consists of four sub-districts- Aileu Vila, Lequidoe, Remexio and Laulara, with a total population of almost 47,000.
MCHS staff undertake various fund raising activities in addition to contributions made by the organisation to support improved health outcomes for the Aileu District community.

Health Priorities in Aileu District are:

• Improving maternal and child health outcomes  
• Improved health through better nutrition 
• Increasing access to basic primary health care services and facilities

How you can help:

• Donate to the East Timor projects through  MCHS (tax deductible) - download form
• Support fundraising events 
• Buy East Timor coffee -Friends of Aileu Coffee is available at MCHS sites and through Moreland City Council. Proceeds go towards MCHS projects in East Timor. Coffee is one of the few export commodities for East Timor. Buying East Timor coffee helps local economies, supports coffee farmers and their communities and raises funds towards project which provide wider benefits.