In a nation where agriculture sustains most of its population, the Finartil Foundation is sowing seeds of change. Led by founder Gil Horacio Boavida, the organization champions sustainable farming, environmental conservation, and community empowerment to transform Timor-Leste’s future.
Roots in Tradition, Vision for Tomorrow
Timor-Leste faces steep challenges: poverty, climate vulnerability, and environmental degradation. But for Boavida, these are opportunities. “We’re not just farming the land—we’re nurturing it,” he explains. Through agroecological and family-based models, Finartil trains communities to cultivate climate-resilient crops (e.g., drought-tolerant staples, native trees), practice regenerative agriculture (intercropping, organic compost, zero pesticides), and manage natural resources sustainably. “It’s about passing on a legacy, not just a livelihood,” he says. The result? Strengthened food security, preserved biodiversity, and empowered farmers. In Aileu, for example, families have planted 1,777 trees (casuarina, mahogany) to prevent erosion and boost soil health. This approach restores the environment and ensures future generations inherit a thriving landscape.
Carbon Farming: Fighting Climate Change, One Tree at a Time
Finartil integrates carbon farming into its model. Tree planting restores degraded land, improves soil health, and absorbs CO₂. Agroforestry (e.g., coffee, spices with native trees) boosts income while combating erosion. Community-led reforestation in Viqueque stabilized slopes, protected watersheds, and created climate resilience. “Nature thrives when communities lead,” says Boavida.
From Waste to Wonder
Finartil tackles waste management, turning trash into tourism opportunities. Mangrove restoration revives coastlines, cleanups reduce pollution, recycling creates eco-friendly crafts, and ecotourism empowers locals to protect their landscapes. These efforts reduce emissions, create jobs, and foster environmental stewardship.
Empowerment as a Blueprint
“We don’t impose solutions,” Boavida emphasizes. “We listen, collaborate, uplift.” With local leaders, they crafted rules: no forest burning, no ecosystem exploitation. Results: revived forests, cleaner rivers, and hope. Women lead initiatives, boosting incomes by $15–20 weekly.
The Struggle for Impact
“Limited funds strain our efforts,” Boavida admits. No external grants yet, but Finartil perseveres through community support and partnerships.
A Call to Join the Movement
Finartil’s message: “A role has value when responsibility isn’t optional.” The foundation seeks partnerships, funding, and allies to expand its impact. “Together, we can make nature friendly again,” Boavida urges. For Boavida, it’s simple: “This is our land. We protect it.”
