CHWs Make History: Formal Recognition and Funding Commitment in East Central Timor

This morning marked a historic occasion as formally certified Community Health Workers (CHWs) from East Central Timor were formally recognized by the local government during the weekly Monday morning flag ceremony at the office of the Regent (Bupati TTS). For the first time ever, CHWs stood side by side with civil servants on this ceremonial ground, receiving official acknowledgment for their vital role in serving the community.

During the ceremony, 15 CHW representatives were symbolically presented with a vest, ID card, and a proficiency pin—honoring the training they completed and the service they’re delivering on the ground. More than just a symbolic gesture, the CHWs were also given the floor to share their aspirations, experiences, and opinions directly with government representatives. This meaningful inclusion signals a growing recognition of the importance of CHWs in public health and community development.

As a proud member of CHIC, the 1000 Days Fund is committed to amplifying CHW voices and ensuring they are heard in the spaces where decisions about their roles and rights are made. As Carolyne Faith duly reminds us in every Community Health Impact Coalition Activate Call: “Nothing about us, without us.”

This advocacy bore tangible results. In response to the CHWs’ testimonies, the local government pledged to allocate funding for CHW incentives in urban neighborhoods (kelurahan)—areas that are not covered by village funds (Dana Desa). This commitment is a powerful outcome of direct CHW-led advocacy.
We celebrate this step forward in recognizing and valuing the contributions of CHWs. May it be the first of many.