LocationsThe inauguration of the Balkaun Uniku in Viqueque marks the full operationalization of One-Stop Shops in every municipality across Timor-Leste, bringing essential government services closer to citizens and advancing the Government's commitment to decentralized, inclusive, and citizen-centered public administration.
Ministry of State Administration and UNDP Inaugurate Balkaun Uniku in Viqueque, Completing Nationwide One-Stop Public Service Network Across Timor-Leste
July 31, 2026
VIQUEQUE, 29 July 2026 — The Ministry of State Administration (MSA), in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Timor-Leste, on 29 July officially inaugurated the Balkaun Uniku (One-Stop Shop) in Viqueque Municipality, marking the successful completion of a nationwide network of Balkaun Uniku offices in all municipalities across Timor-Leste.
This milestone represents a significant achievement in the Government's ongoing efforts to decentralize public administration and ensure that all citizens—regardless of where they live—have equitable access to essential government services. With the opening of the Viqueque Balkaun Uniku, residents no longer need to travel to Dili or other municipalities to access key administrative services, saving both time and costs while improving the overall citizen experience.
In her remarks, Ms. Katyna Argueta, UNDP Resident Representative, emphasized that “with the launch of this Balkaun Úniku today, Balkaun Úniku offices have been established in all 14 municipalities. This demonstrates that when there is strong political leadership, committed institutions, and solid partnerships, it is possible to transform ideas into concrete results that directly benefit the people”.
The Viqueque Balkaun Uniku completes a network that now serves citizens in Manatuto, Baucau, Liquiça, Ataúro, Dili, Aileu, Manufahi, Oecusse, Covalima, Bobonaro, Ermera, Ainaro, Lautem and Viqueque, ensuring nationwide coverage of integrated public service centers.
Speaking during the inauguration, Mr. Sergio de Jesus Fernandes Hornai, Minister of Justice, reaffirmed the Government's commitment to strengthening collaboration among institutions to improve public services.
"Enhancing the accessibility of public administration is critical. The government must focus on delivering efficient, cost-effective, and timely solutions to the challenges encountered by citizens."
By consolidating multiple government services under one roof, the Balkaun Uniku model simplifies administrative procedures and significantly reduces travel time, expenses, and waiting periods for citizens. The Viqueque Balkaun Uniku will provide streamlined access to essential services, including:
National Identification Cards (BI)
Passports
Criminal Certificates
During the ceremony, Mr. Tomás do Rosário Cabral, Minister of State Administration, expressed appreciation for the partnership with UNDP and acknowledged the efforts of all institutions involved in bringing the initiative to completion.
"While central government retains control of digital governance, public services must be standardized before decentralizing power to local authorities—ensuring core citizen needs are met first."
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