Better Roads Policy Brief

This policy brief recommends that Timor-Leste maximise the impact of its $1.5 billion national road investment by addressing the neglect of regional and urban roads, which are vital for rural connectivity and economic growth but remain underfunded and in poor condition.

Key strategies include reclassifying important municipal roads for national management, expanding investment and planning to cover these roads, prioritising sustainable sealing technologies such as fibre-reinforced concrete, and supporting the development of local and women-led contractors.

The brief emphasises that only sealed roads are sustainable in Timor-Leste’s environment and that empowering local contractors will ensure long-term maintenance and economic benefits, ultimately sustaining rural connectivity and enhancing national infrastructure value.