On September 15, 2026, Mr. Kirati Veruwan, Vice President of the Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (Public Organization) (NEDA), and his delegation visited the Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) in the city of Baguia, Baucau, Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste. They were joined by Mr. Mr. Atipat Rojanapaibulya, Ambassador in Dili, and Ms. Navchaa Suren, UNFPA Representative in Timor-Leste, and her team. The delegation monitored progress on renovation of the Baguia health center, one of two health facilities supported by NEDA to provide services for mothers during midwifery care and childbirth and to contribute to a significant reduction in maternal and infant mortality.
The Baguia facility involves renovation of an existing building. The inspection found the work to be approximately 90 percent complete, with the remaining work involving final interior details. Training for medical personnel, installation of necessary equipment, provision of medicines and medical supplies, and delivery of one ambulance are also underway. Renovation, training, installation and delivery of all equipment are expected to be completed by the end of 2026. As part of the monitoring mission, the delegation held discussions with representatives of Baucau, local authorities and personnel at the Baguia health center to hear their views and establish a common understanding regarding management of the facility after the project is handed over. The delegation received a warm welcome.
NEDA also visited Saint Joseph Baguia School, one of the projects that received assistance from Her Royal Highness Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn. The assistance provided four water-storage tanks, each with a capacity of 10,000 liters, as well as a water system for the school, which faces severe water shortages during the dry season. In the past, students and teachers had to travel long distances to carry water from a mountain stream back to the school. The assistance has improved the quality of life of children and young people and provided clean water for year-round consumption and general use at the school.
