In 2022, Jesuit Social Service (JSS)-Timor-Leste expanded its mission to provide sanitation to local communities across the country. According to Fr. Julio Sousa, SJ, the Director, “JSS provides one sanitation facility for each household, using either the traditional one-septic hole system or the two-septic receptor alternating system.”

To date, nearly 50 households have benefited from this program, which has been implemented in three municipalities: Ermera, Liquiça, and Covalima (Suai). The first project took place in Biluli, Ermera, where five toilets were built for five households. This was followed by a similar initiative where 5 toilets were built in Tarasu, Ermera, and another five toilets were constructed in Nasuta, Liquiça, for local families.

In 2023, the program expanded to Suai, where the JSS team constructed nine toilets for nine households in Suai Loro village. Three more toilets were built in Lhalmeta, Railaco, and another three were constructed in Maukilormata, Railaco, and Ermera. These projects have resulted in remarkable improvements in the living conditions and hygiene standards of rural communities, providing families with a healthier and safer environment.

In collaboration with the local community, Jose and Satria, key members of the JSS team, have worked tirelessly to identify the families most in need of support. The project aims to meet the growing demands in the area.

In 2024, the program built an additional 12 sanitation/toilet facilities: three (3) in Fatuglana, Liquiça, three (3) in Gamanahati, three (3) in Maubara Ulun village, and another three (3) in Metinaro, Dili.

This year, the JSS team plans to build 28 more sanitation facilities in other communities.

The process of implementing sanitation facilities begins with identifying households in need, meeting with a community leader, and conducting field observations. After gathering all necessary information, the team discusses the community’s financial situation and other relevant factors. Once everything is in place, the project is carried out by a local constructor, or locally known as bada’en, led by Satria, alongside the JSS WASH team.

Thanks to these efforts, many families now have access to proper sanitation, leading to healthier lives. These projects have truly transformed rural communities, improving hygiene and overall well-being.

By: Iriana Soares II Source: JSS-Timor-Leste, WASH Program