Baucau District is situated 129 kilometres east of Dili and is the second largest district in Timor-Leste with a population of 104, 571. The District is divided into six Sub-Districts: Baucau, Laga and Vemasse on the coast and Venilale, Quelicai and Baguia inland. Formerly an administrative and trading centre under the Portuguese, Baucau town is the second largest city after Dili, with a population of approximately 16,000. Baucau is also a major religious centre and the home of the Bishop Basilio Nascimento, a legendary Timorese regional and national leader. The town of Baucau has the country’s largest airport as well as a port facility. The architecture in Baucau reflects the colonial period of the Portuguese as well as the era of the Indonesian occupation. Sadly, during reprisals following the 1999 referendum for independence, much of Baucau’s basic infrastructure and assets were destroyed as many buildings and schools were looted, damaged and burnt.
Sub-District of Baucau
Our Friendship Relationship is with the Sub-district of Baucau. In the Sub-district of Baucau there are 11 Sucos. They are: Bahu, Bucoli, Buibao, Buruma, Caibada, Gariwae, Samalari, Seical, Tirilolo, Triloka , Ualili.
Economy
The main economic activity of the district is agriculture including the production of corn/maize, rice, peanuts, coconuts and vegetables. Small businesses have grown in the time since independence with shops, restaurants, internet cafes and the main produce market operating. However, efforts are being hampered by a lack of power, transport and supply. Unemployment, especially for young people, is very high. Yet, some basic industries are emerging. The iron-roofing rolling mill, established by Doncaster Rotary and now the East Timor Roofing Company, is in production and is also used as a training facility for ex-FALINTIL fighters. There are also many proposals to develop local handcraft production as well as a range of micro-economic activities in areas such as health and hygiene, food production and processing, transportation, small retail businesses and small-scale tourism.
Administration
Mr. Antonio Guterres is the District Administrator of Baucau. Mr. Guterres and his staff administer political and developmental initiatives in Baucau and the sub-districts. However, there are various other institutions in Baucau. The Catholic Church contributes significantly to Baucau’s education and youth development as well as provides social leadership. In addition, village leaders, both traditional and elected, play a role in organisational and social structures. Furthermore, several local and international non-governmental organisations are assisting with development in Baucau.
Tourism
Discover the world’s newest nation, Timor-Leste!
After 450 years of foreign occupation, Timor-Leste is a new and exciting country to discover. With its stunning mountainous landscape, untouched beaches and beautiful coral reefs as well as its rich and diverse cultural and historical influences, Timor-Leste is an intriguing place to explore. Timor-Leste is so diverse there is something for everyone including scuba diving and snorkeling, trekking and mountain climbing, whale and dolphin watching as well as traditional village stays and demonstrations of local crafts and customs. Baucau is a popular tourist spot for travelers. The locals refer to it as the honeymoon point as it has been such a popular location for newly-weds over the years. The three-hour drive along the coast from Dili to Baucau is magnificent and when you arrive you can enjoy Baucau’s cool climate, spring water swimming pools and stunning beaches. The beach at Baucau has fresh ocean breezes, enjoyable camping under the shade of palm trees and spectacular sunsets. In Baucau you will find the recently opened, Pousada de Baucau, which is a hospitality training facility promoting a high standard of service in food and accommodation.