On the occasion of World Environment Day, USAID and the Minister of Tourism, Commerce and Industry Gil Alves joined Liquica’s local officials in inaugurating the Ulmera Community Tourism Project on June 5. The community has re-named the rehabilitated beach “Praia da Memoria”.

With the support of USAID, through its Small Grants Program and Dezenvolve Sétor Privadu, the Ulmera Youth Group organized beach clean-ups, repaired existing facilities, constructed new picnic areas and toilets, and also set up an income-generation activity so visitors can now rent kayaks, sunbeds and beach umbrellas to better enjoy the beach.

“I am very proud to say that this is a result of the partnership between USAID and Ulmera’s people. I am glad that the community has taken the lead and are finally tapping into the potential of Ulmera beach. The Ulmera Youth Group, in particular, has worked hard to restore Ulmera for tourism,” USAID Representative Mark White said in his remarks.

Minister of Tourism Gil Alves said he was impressed with the renovations done by the community with the help of USAID. He urged the people of Ulmera to take advantage of the economic and tourism opportunities that “Praia da Memoria” has opened up for them.

The launch was a festive occasion attended by the District Administrator, chefe de suco and other local officials. The community served traditional food for lunch, providing visitors a taste of local meals to complete their eco-tourism experience. The Ulmera Youth Group also organized a kayak race for young people.

“It is my hope, and I know you share the dream, that Ulmera will develop into a sustainable community-run, eco-tourism venture in the long run, and that it will serve as a good example to other communities in Timor-Leste,” USAID Representative White said in his remarks to the people of Ulmera.

Photo: Chefe de suco of Ulmera, Minister of Tourism
Gil Alves (center) and USAID Representative Mark White
inaugurating Praia da Memoria. [DAI-SGP]