Since gaining its independence in 2002, Timor-Leste has made strides in rebuilding its infrastructure, institutional frameworks, and core human resources. However, recent data indicate that the country still lags behind in regional average life expectancy, malnutrition and undernutrition, and family planning. The Government of Timor-Leste faces multiple system-level challenges that impede its ability to deliver high-quality, affordable health services to address these key health issues.

The USAID Health System Sustainability Activity is helping Timor-Leste build a self-reliant health system that is well-governed, efficient, accountable, and responsive to people’s needs. Through close collaboration with local stakeholders, our work aims to:

• Strengthen health sector governance by increasing evidence-based decision-making in the ministry of health, expanding collaboration and coordination between the ministries of health and finance, and improving health budget execution
• Support management of the health workforce by strengthening information systems, developing health workforce competencies and standards, and improving the capacity and distribution of health workers
• Promote healthy behaviors such as those related to family planning, nutrition, handwashing, and gender-based violence through social and behavior change activities
• Mobilize civil society organizations to advocate for health services, and foster open dialogue among policymakers, political leaders, and civil society