Beneficiary Marco and his wife-Mahata, Oecusse. Photo:Fokupers Lens. Date:08/04/2026
Marco, father of five children from Mahata Village, Oecusse, and Secretary of the Anhapi Bisoni Savings and Production Group, has transformed his life through the EU-funded Promotion of Women through Economic Empowerment and Rights (POWER) Project with the support of Fundasaun Esperansa Enklave Oecusse (FEEO).
Before joining the group, Marco and his family struggled with low and unreliable agricultural income, food failures from pests and droughts often left them unable to meet daily needs. “Our income was not enough to meet our family’s needs,” he shared.
In 2025, Marco helped form the Anhapi Bisoni Group, where members save regularly and access small loans to support activities that generate $50 loan income, Marco started selling Bua-malus and now earns about $6 per day, helping to improve his family’s stability.
In addition to income, the program also changed his mindset. Through training on financial management and family well-being, Marco learned about gender equality at home and also made him confident to manage finances and plan for the future so that he can build a suitable home for himself and his family.
“I used to think housework was only for women, now I help my wife and share the responsibility,” he said.
Marco’s wife added, “After the POWER Program, we both attended the training. My eldest son has made many changes in sharing household responsibilities. Our family now lives in harmony and without violence.
Today, Marco dreams of expanding his business into jam production and hopes that his children will complete their university education and live in a peaceful and harmonious family.
His story shows how savings, learning, and solidarity can turn hardship into hope.
