In the quiet village of Ossorua-Ossu, nestled in the Viqueque municipality of Timor-Leste, something remarkable is growing—not just crops, but community strength, resilience, and hope.
Last week, the HAFA Cooperative—an inspiring group of 49 dedicated members—welcomed two special guests: Frank Reimann, the ADRA Asia Regional Director, and the New Zealand Representative to Timor-Leste. Their visit was more than ceremonial—it was a celebration of what local communities can achieve when empowered with the right support.
The HAFA Cooperative, established through ADRA’s SHAPE Project and led by the passionate Mana Celeste, is a shining example of how collaboration and purpose can transform rural livelihoods. As the guests arrived, the members beamed with pride, eager to showcase the fruits of their hard work: ginger candy, ginger powder, coconut oil, and more—all produced from locally grown coconut and ginger.
Inside their humble production area, the air was rich with the scent of fresh ingredients, and the energy was contagious. Visitors watched as cooperative members shared how they learned to create market-ready products, boosting their household incomes and securing a better future for their families.
What stood out most was the spirit of unity. This wasn’t just a cooperative—it was a community movement. Every member, whether harvesting ginger roots or bottling oil, played a vital role in the group’s success. And in return, they found a sense of dignity, purpose, and partnership.
Frank Reimann expressed his admiration for the cooperative’s achievements and encouraged members to keep moving forward. “It’s incredibly moving to see the impact of your dedication,” he shared. “You’re not just producing goods—you’re producing change.”
Supported by the New Zealand Government through MFAT (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade) and ADRA New Zealand, the SHAPE Project is proving that sustainable development begins at the grassroots. When local people are equipped with tools, knowledge, and encouragement, they can create pathways out of poverty and towards prosperity.
As the visit came to a close, the members of HAFA stood taller—not because of the recognition, but because they know their efforts matter. Their journey is still unfolding, but with every drop of oil and every piece of ginger candy, they’re building a legacy of hope—one product, one family, one village at a time.
Through projects like SHAPE, ADRA continues to go beyond aid—partnering with people, nurturing local potential, and fostering long-term impact. The story of the HAFA Cooperative is not just about economic growth; it’s about dignity, opportunity, and the power of people helping people. In every village, every product, and every smile—ADRA is there, walking alongside communities, empowering them to thrive.
An ADRA Impact Story from: ADRA Timor Leste Projects
