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Media Release
9 March 2006
Australia launches a new program to fight poverty in NTT and NTB
Today the Australian Ambassador, Mr Bill Farmer, launched a $30 million program to reduce poverty in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) and West Nusa Tenggara (NTB). The program, Australia Nusa Tenggara Assistance for Regional Autonomy (ANTARA), is part of Australia’s long term commitment to improve regional and provincial governance, access to essential services, and increase incomes.
“Australia is here in NTT and NTB for the long haul and we are already planning to deliver innovative and flexible activities over the next year,” said Mr Farmer at the opening of ANTARA’s new office in Kupang.
The program, funded by Australia’s International Aid Agency, AusAID, will operate until 2010. Given the scale of the development challenges in these provinces, a second phase of the program may be required.
Some activities being considered for funding and early implementation are:
- Medical supply management – to improve efficiency and effectiveness of pharmaceuticals and medical supplies procurement and distribution.
- West Manggarai eco-tourism assistance – to increase visitor opportunities, and improve the quality of small and medium enterprises and sustainable tourism services.
- Specialized clinical and surgical services to NTT – to support local specialist skills development in providing specialist services in plastic and reconstructive surgery.
- Food security – sharing information and working on preventive measures. AusAID is also supporting a World Food Program resident position in Kupang over the next two years.
AusAID’s involvement in Nusa Tenggara province has been extensive and longstanding. Since late 1999, AusAID has delivered humanitarian and emergency assistance to help communities in West Nusa Tenggara, and has programs in the region focusing on civil governance, health, HIV/AIDS, and education .
Further information:
John Maxwell (ANTARA Program) – (0380) 825125