Our lives changed through gardening high value crops

Alberto Laca, 48 years of age, is a farmer living in the sub-village of Manapa, Tapomeak village, Bobonaro Municipality. He and his wife Fransisca Hoar have six children of which three are male and three female. All of their children are currently being educated at their local schools.

Alberto is among the many farmers who have benefitted from World Visions Bobonaro Food Security and Economic Development (BFSED) project, which is supported by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade through World Vision New Zealand.

Alberto is the leader of the locally made Serhana Hali group which undertakes horticultural activities, rice production, food processing and savings and loan. Their primary activity at the moment however has been trialling the growth of rock melon. The group was formed in March 2003 with few members involved.

Before joining with World Vision through the BFSED project, Alberto struggled to gain an income from the agricultural activities on his farm. However, after World Vision intervened so much has changed. From a 25x30m plot of land, every month Alberto has an income of around US$300 – 400, coming from selling his rock melon and vegetables in Bobonaro.

Alberto is also connected to Dili supermarkets and can have an income of up to US$1,600 from these sales. He mentions that he has gained over 75% more income from the farm after selling the products to the market, and this money can be used for the family, especially sending his children to school.

“We are so appreciative of World Visions presence, because they can change our life through small activities like gardening high value crops,” he adds.