Participatory planning and implementation of fish-based livelihood innovations in Timor-Leste

Abstract

This report documents the process, outcomes and lessons identified from a 4-year coastal livelihoods enhancement project in Timor-Leste using a participatory approach with two groups of people (40 participants in total) from two rural coastal communities. We find that there are opportunities to harness the economic and nutritional value of coastal aquatic foods in Timor-Leste. People in coastal communities are willing and interested to test out their ideas for enhancing their fish-based and coastal livelihoods. However, ideas can be limited to those in neighboring communities, and people may not be accustomed to working collectively. Facilitating access to training and building capacity to bridge the rural-urban divide are important components of making such initiatives a success.