On November 5th, 2024, the Minister of Trade and Industry, Nino Pereira, and the Secretary of State for Equality, Elvina Sousa Carvalho, participated in the launch of the ‘Hakbi’it Feto Store’ in Dili, a space dedicated to the economic empowerment of Timorese women. 
The launch ceremony, held at the headquarters of Rede Feto Timor-Leste (Timor-Leste Women’s Network) in Caicoli, was also attended by the European Union Ambassador to Timor-Leste, Marc Fiedrich, and the President of Rede Feto’s Board of Directors, Zélia Fernandes. The Hakbi’it Feto shop, established as part of the women’s empowerment project implemented by ADRA (Adventist Development and Relief Agency) and the Feto Network, has the financial support of the European Union, the Austrian Development Agency and ADRA Austria. This initiative aims to promote processed agricultural products and handicrafts from 15 women’s groups from four municipalities to encourage female participation in the local economy.
In her speech, the Secretary of State for Equality, Elvina Sousa Carvalho, emphasised the positive impact of this initiative on strengthening the financial autonomy of Timorese women: “The Hakbi’it Feto Store is an important achievement in our joint struggle for the empowerment of women in Timor-Leste. This space represents an opportunity for women to commercialise their products, contributing directly to improving their families’ well-being and the country’s economy.” 
The Minister of Trade and Industry, Nino Pereira, emphasised the importance of women’s participation in the economic sector as a crucial step for the country’s social and economic development: “The struggle of women in the economic sector is a new phase in the quest to strengthen families and our nation. The women of Timor-Leste must be empowered to lead and participate fully in the economy”.
European Union Ambassador Marc Fiedrich congratulated the women involved in the project and highlighted the impact that initiatives like this have on Timor-Leste’s sustainable development: “With the skills they have acquired and their hard work, these women are transforming their lives and strengthening the Timorese economy. Seeing what’s possible when there’s commitment and support is inspiring”. 
The Hakbi’it Feto Store will be a reference point for selling goods produced by civil society organisations and women’s groups, promoting entrepreneurship and the financial independence of its members. During the ceremony, guests were able to visit the product exhibition and participate in local cookery demonstrations, where they were invited to support the work of Timorese women.
This initiative is part of the ‘Hakbi’it Feto’ women’s empowerment project. The project, which includes training in financial literacy, cost management, and market development, enables women to become increasingly independent and influential in the local economy. The European Union, the Austrian Development Agency, and ADRA Austria fund the project.
