TOMAK has today signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Market Development Facility (MDF), which operates in five countries and also receives support from the Australian Government. Since 2012, MDF has been supporting activities to stimulate economic growth and increase incomes for Timor-Leste’s growing population. This includes support for growth sectors such as agribusiness, processing and rural distribution, and greenfield industries (construction, manufacturing and tourism).

TOMAK is an agricultural livelihoods program with a shared focus on market systems development as a vital catalyst for increasing household incomes. 

Recognising areas where TOMAK and MDF’s programmatic objectives and expertise might overlap, the two programs have signed a memorandum of understanding which provides a framework for cooperation and program alignment. The MoU establishes mechanisms for cross-program communication, partnership management, and transparency, and outlines key roles and responsibilities for each program team. 

The agreement, signed by MDF Country Representative Shariful Islam, and TOMAK Team Leader Richard Holloway, is a welcome step in coordinating the long-term efforts of the two programs.