Well‐constructed and maintained road system should be resilient to the climate and weather conditions and it`s essential for economic growth, social cohesion, and national security. According to the Strategic Development Plan 2011 – 2030, the development of roads in Timor‐Leste has one of the highest priorities. The aim of the Program under the Infrastructure Fund is to support movement of goods and services as well as to improve connectivity for

transportation between municipalities to various centers. Roads have a strong economic and social impact because provide access to isolated areas, reduce time and cost of transportation. In 2022, the Roads Program merged with the Bridges Program into one “Roads and Bridges”. Good and well‐maintained bridges are crucial for ensuring reliable access to markets, education, and health services and for security and social stability. These are fundamental requirements for economic and social development that are recognized by the Government and stated in SDP. Therefore, construction of new roads and bridges, rehabilitation of deteriorated bridges and widening of narrow bridges was justified by high traffic and ranked it as a high priority.

Currently, there are 422 projects under the Roads and Bridges Program, including:

  • 158 ongoing projects;

  • 65 contracts from 2021/2022;

  • 199 projects under preparation.