USNS Mercy Visits Timor-Leste
In a show of U.S.-East Timor friendship, U.S. Naval hospital ship Mercy visited Dili from 27 August until 1 September. Mercy medical staff performed surgery on 40 Timorese whose medical conditions are too complex to be treated in the country. USAID and its partners worked closely with the Ministry of Health to identify suitable patients from each of the country's 13 districts and transported about 100 of them to Dili for screening. Mercy's specialist teams treated more than 4,500 outpatients at special public clinics ashore and aboard the ship, gave more than 2,000 immunizations, distributed more than 1,500 pairs of eye glasses, and provided a short training course to professional health organizations and staff at the National Hospital. Mercy's contingent of Navy construction engineers also repaired medical equipment and facilities at the National Hospital and clinics in Dili. (Sept. 06, 2006)

Agricultural Programs Boost Young People's Incomes and Skills
Through its Small Grants Program, USAID is helping hundreds of young people across Timor-Leste increase their incomes by improving their agricultural skills. The young farmers learn how to cultivate a range of valuable crops and also how to market them. By focusing on income generation and sustainability, the programs encourage young people to remain in their rural communities, rather than moving to urban areas in search of jobs. (Sept. 06, 2006)

USAID/TL Moves to New Office
USAID Timor-Leste moved to new premises on Rua Sergio Vieira de Mello, Farol, in mid-August. The building was formerly used as the US embassy. With substantial renovations and security upgrades, the building provides better office space and security for the mission. Careful planning, attention to detail, and support from RDM/A and USAID/Washington ensured a seamless transition to the new location. (Sept. 06, 2006)