Timor-Leste’s farmers’ movement is growing stronger! In March 2025, farmers from across Viqueque municipality came together in Uma Quic village for a historic occasion – the first-ever congress of the brand new Viqueque Farmers’ Union. Under the theme ‘Consolidating Farmers’ Strength to Strengthen Food Sovereignty’, 86 delegates from 36 farmer cooperatives took part in the three-day event, officially forming the Uniaun Agricultura Municipio Viqueque (UAMV).
This marks a major achievement: UAMV is the sixth municipal-level farmers’ union supported by Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA, further strengthening the movement for food sovereignty and farmers’ rights across the country. Delegates approved the union’s constitution, set a five-year action plan, and elected their leadership team:
- President: Mr. Francisco Fernandes
- Vice President: Mr. Selestino Rangel Pinto
- General Secretary: Ms. Carlota Rangel
The elected president, Francisco Fernandes, emphasised the power of international solidarity:
“International solidarity is a key action to build the power of our farmers’ union. We all have to work together at the local, national, and international level so that we can contribute to the wealth of workers around the world, including here in Timor-Leste.
My two colleagues and I will work hard along with our farmer members in our municipality to promote our products in national and international markets. Unified, we will be strong. For sure, we still need some assistance and support from our international allies, especially APHEDA and Australians.”
Farmers uniting for a stronger future
The congress was officially opened by Mr. Francisco Cruz Soares de Gonzaga, President of the Viqueque Municipal Authority, who encouraged the new union to work alongside local government to develop the agriculture sector and address key challenges.
The event was supported by Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA alongside key Timorese civil society organisations. Representatives from Timor-Leste’s five other municipal farmers’ unions—UNAER, MPRAL, UNARCO, UAMM, and UAMBO—were also present, standing in solidarity with their fellow farmers in Viqueque.
A movement built on strength and solidarity
Since 2016, Union Aid Abroad–APHEDA has partnered with local organisations—including IEP, KSI, and UNAER—to help farmers organise and advocate for their rights. By establishing and strengthening unions, farmers gain access to land, develop sustainable farming techniques, and build collective power.
Today, over 300 farmers cooperatives or ‘committee bases’ are active across nine of Timor-Leste’s thirteen municipalities, empowering thousands of farmers to take control of their livelihoods and contribute to national food sovereignty.
With UAMV now established, the farmers’ movement in Timor-Leste continues to grow stronger. As the sixth municipal-level farmers’ union, it represents the increasing power of agricultural workers fighting for their rights and livelihoods. With our continued support, these unions will continue to build a brighter future for Timorese farmers.
As Mr. Fernandes said, “Unified, we will be strong.”
If you haven’t joined the global justice organisation of the Australian union movement, now is the right time to do it. Join at www.apheda.org.au/join
