Ombudsman's Office Investigates Human Rights Complaints
USAID partner Management Sciences for Development (MSD) is providing vital support to Timor-Leste's new ombudsman agency, the Office of the Provedor, to investigate a range of complaints since the start of civil disturbances in Timor-Leste on April 28. The office was established last year to investigate reports of human rights abuses, corruption, and poor governance. Current USAID-funded activities include human rights monitoring, data collection and analysis, public assistance, and the mobilization of a new network of non-governmental organizations to assist in these operations. The Provedor's senior legal research specialist, public assistance specialist, and administration specialist are funded through MSD. All are fully engaged as the office undertakes the tasks of human rights monitoring operations, site visits, statement collection, and reporting. The office is due to present its first annual report to Parliament at the end of June. (June 27, 2006)

USAID Grantee Links Young Farmers with Consumers
Young farmers groups in the Baucau area supported by the Timor Young Entrepreneurship Initiative (TYEI) have been selling their produce to internally displaced persons (IDPs) and other consumers in Dili. The TYEI project helps young farmers improve their agricultural and marketing skills. Through the TYEI link, the extra cabbages, tomatoes, beans, lettuce, limes, and chilies have been available for sale in Dili. The TYEI farmers groups from Baucau intend to maintain their supply of fresh produce to Dili, where more than 40% of the population is staying in IDP camps. (June 27, 2006)

Rural Health Clinics Resume Full Operation
Health service provision to residents in the country's coffee-producing areas is returning to normal after disruptions in some areas. Clinic Café Timor runs 11 static and 4 mobile clinics for Cooperativa Café Timor, with support from USAID partner National Cooperative Business Association. After some disruptions in late May and early June, all are operating now. Assessments indicate that all buildings and stocks are intact. These CCT health services reach about 15% of the country's population. (June 27, 2006)

Transport Group Wins Emergency Distribution Contract
The Timor-Leste Transportation Association has won a contract with the World Food Program to distribute emergency supplies and commodities to 7 districts around the country. Association members have already distributed more than 100 metric tonnes to camps for displaced residents in Dili. The association was established recently with support from USAID's private-sector development project to encourage stronger transportation links and better market access for suppliers and consumers. (June 27, 2006)

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