Deadline: 31-Mar-2026
UNICEF Timor-Leste is seeking civil society partners to implement community-based water catchment activities using nature-based solutions to strengthen climate resilience. The initiative focuses on gender equality, environmental management, WASH, and climate action, targeting 10 aldeias in Lautem Municipality with an indicative budget of $50,000 and 4,000 expected beneficiaries. Activities include training facilitators, community consultations, school engagement, and construction of water retention structures.
Overview of the Initiative
The UNICEF Timor-Leste water catchment initiative aims to strengthen community resilience against climate change by implementing water retention and nature-based solutions (NbS) in rural areas. The project integrates WASH, environmental protection, and gender equality to improve water security, soil stability, and local management of natural resources.
Programme Context
Over the past 15 years, Timor-Leste has made significant progress in WASH services: basic water coverage rose from 63.2% in 2010 to 87.3% in 2024, and sanitation coverage from 38.5% to 72.9%. However, rural areas lag behind urban centers, with rural water coverage at 82.3% compared to 97.7% in urban areas, and sanitation at 69.4% versus 80.1% in cities. Rural communities face frequent system breakdowns due to limited funding, staff turnover, and institutional changes. Climate-induced hazards such as floods, droughts, and landslides further exacerbate vulnerabilities, particularly in mountainous areas dependent on spring-fed water.
Key Activities
The initiative focuses on implementing community-based water catchment using NbS, including:
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Construction of water retention structures to capture and store rainwater.
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Reforestation and permaculture practices to improve soil stability and groundwater recharge.
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Reduction of slash-and-burn deforestation to enhance environmental sustainability.
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Community consultations and baseline data collection to guide project implementation.
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Selection and training of community facilitators to support NbS adoption.
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Engagement with schools and broader communities to raise awareness and encourage participation.
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Application of GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) analysis and environmental and social impact assessments.
CSO Partnership
The CSO PERMATIL, established in 1999, has partnered with UNICEF since 2022 to implement water catchment activities in municipalities including Ainaro, Viqueque, Aileu, and Dili. PERMATIL’s approach integrates construction, permaculture, reforestation, and community capacity-building. In 2025, UNICEF began supporting the National Regulatory Department of Water and Sanitation (DNRAS) to develop guidance documents standardizing community-based water catchment management, expected to be formally approved in early 2026.
Expected Outcomes
The selected CSO partner will implement activities in 10 aldeias of Lautem Municipality over nine months, targeting approximately 4,000 beneficiaries. Expected results include:
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Functional water retention structures to mitigate floods, droughts, and landslides.
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Enhanced community capacity in water management and climate adaptation.
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Increased awareness among local communities and schools about environmental sustainability.
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Adoption of PERMATIL’s methodology and DNRAS guidance tools to ensure best practices.
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Regular monitoring and evaluation to ensure project effectiveness and long-term resilience.
Who is Eligible
UNICEF seeks a civil society organization with experience in WASH, environmental conservation, climate resilience, and community-based implementation. The CSO must demonstrate capacity to manage the budget, deliver activities in rural settings, and apply NbS approaches effectively while integrating gender equality and social inclusion principles.
Budget and Funding
The initiative has an indicative budget of $50,000, covering activities including community consultations, construction of water retention structures, training of facilitators, school and community engagement, and monitoring and evaluation.
Why It Matters
This project addresses water security, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability in rural Timor-Leste, empowering communities to manage their water resources effectively. By integrating NbS and community engagement, the initiative strengthens adaptive capacities, reduces climate-induced risks, and promotes inclusive participation, particularly of women and marginalized groups.
Common Tips and Mistakes to Avoid
Tips for Applicants: Ensure the project integrates NbS methodologies, engages local communities and schools, includes a clear monitoring plan, and addresses gender equality and social inclusion. Common Mistakes: Overlooking rural context challenges, insufficient community engagement, inadequate monitoring frameworks, or failure to apply PERMATIL’s methodology and DNRAS guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply? Civil society organizations with relevant experience in WASH, climate resilience, and community-based water catchment.
2. What is the project duration? Nine months.
3. How many communities will be served? 10 aldeias in Lautem Municipality.
4. What is the budget? $50,000.
5. Who are the expected beneficiaries? Approximately 4,000 community members, including women and youth.
6. What methodologies should be used? Nature-based solutions, PERMATIL’s approach, and DNRAS guidance tools.
7. What activities are included? Water retention structures, training facilitators, community consultations, school engagement, GEDSI analysis, and environmental and social impact assessments.
Conclusion
The UNICEF Timor-Leste water catchment initiative strengthens rural community resilience against climate change, improves water security, and promotes sustainable environmental management. By combining NbS, community engagement, and capacity-building, the project empowers communities to adapt to climate risks and enhances long-term sustainability.
For more information, visit UN Partner Portal.
