On October 1st, 2024, the Vice Prime Minister, Coordinating Minister for Social Affairs and Minister for Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, presided over the opening of the National Seminar on the “Toos Uma Hun” (vegetable gardens close to home) programme, organised by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in Timor Plaza. Various international bodies and organisations attended the seminar, intending to debate the integration of small farmers into the school meals programme, promoting the consumption of local products in schools. 
This public consultation is designed to gather contributions from all parties involved. Its goal is to improve the national agri-food system and encourage sustainable production integrated with school meals.
During his opening speech, the Vice Prime Minister stressed the importance of this collaborative effort and thanked international organisations for their continued support in implementing this fundamental project for national food security. 
“The Government is committed to strengthening the school meals programme by implementing Law No. 36/2022, which provides for the inclusion of local products in school menus. This effort aims to improve our children’s nutrition and establish a more sustainable market close to small farmers”, said Mariano Assanami Sabino. 
The Vice Prime Minister also stressed the need for effective coordination between all the institutions involved to ensure the success of this programme, which is managed directly by the municipal authorities. The school meals budget was increased in 2024, with a further increase planned for 2025, reinforcing the Government’s commitment to ensuring quality food in schools.
“On behalf of the 9th Constitutional Government, we thank all the agencies and call on them to continue working hard, helping us to improve school meals. Together, we can provide healthier food for our children, support small farmers and promote the sustainable development of our country”, concluded the Vice Prime Minister.
Representatives of various national and international institutions participated in the seminar, reiterating their commitment to collaborating with the Government to implement policies that guarantee nutritious and sustainable school meals, contributing to the well-being of children and the economic development of local farmers.