The Government of Japan and the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) today signed an agreement to strengthen Timor-Leste's national school feeding programme in 2026.
Japan's USD 700,000 (JPY 100,000,000) contribution will help WFP to supply 330 metric tonnes of rice to over 350 schools, reaching more than 100,000 children in Covalima, Aileu, Lautem and Dili. This marks a significant step in Japan's long-standing partnership with Timor-Leste to improve food security and nutrition, especially for children.
Speaking at the signing ceremony in Dili, the Japanese Ambassador to Timor-Leste, KIMURA Tetsuya, reaffirmed Japan's commitment to supporting the health and development of children across the country.
"We hope that this rice will give children the energy they need for a healthy growth and enable them to perform well in school. We also expect this rice to encourage healthy eating habits in Timor-Leste's children, to enrich both their bodies and minds."
"We are deeply grateful for Japan's support for school meals in Timor-Leste," Amin Said, WFP Officer-in-Charge in Timor-Leste said. "This support aligns with the Government of Timor-Leste's priority to ensure that every child has access to nutritious meals throughout the school year - helping them learn, grow, and look to the future with confidence."
School meals are an important investment in Timor-Leste's future, reducing hunger, improving nutrition, and encouraging school attendance. Japan's support strengthens national efforts to protect children's health and well-being while building a more resilient school feeding system.
WFP continues to work closely with the Government of Timor-Leste and development partners to advance food security and nutrition, contributing to the country's long-term development goals.
