Supporting Better Health in East Timor

MCHS was invited to work in partnership with the cities of Moreland and Hume to support 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 support to build local democracy and a sustainable future.  

Involvement in the program also reflects the Board’s commitment towards achievement of the Millennium Development Goals for health.

The health needs of the East Timorese people are profound: life expectancy is 64 years, 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, 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 occur periodically and these compound problems, resulting in malnutrition and stunted developmental delays in children. A lack of clean water and sanitation hinders success in eradicating preventable illnesses and disease.

The impact of decades of conflict remains. 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 for those who spent years in remote rural areas has resulted in longstanding  physical and psychological problems for many residents of the Aileu district.

As a partner to the Friends of Aileu, MCHS is primarily focusing on the Aileu District, located south of the capital Dili. The main townof this district, Aileu, is situated in a river valley about an hour’s journey from Dili along winding mountain roads.

Health Priorities in Aileu District are: 

• Improving maternal and child health outcomes
• Reducing mosquito-borne and water-borne diseases
• Increasing access to basic primary health care services

For more information on these projects click here or contact us on (03) 9389 2229

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.