junko ito, the east timor director, says working with coffee farmers has given her insight into the positionf women in this society. >> the ngo is attempting to support the development of products based on readily available local materials which can be sold to generate cash. providing the women with a direct source of income is seen as a means to improve their status and rise above poverty. the projects that began in 2008 now involve 21 women's groups and more than 20 products have been commercialized. >> the village of suai loro lies southwest of dili. the roofs of local houses are made from coconut palm fronds. the village is home to 3,700 people. most are fishermen or farmers, producing just enough to feed themselves and their families. local housewives from their 20s to their 60s are meeting in the village hall. they began developing products a month ago. they are making a topping for rice. the main ingredients are fish from the nearby sea and moringa leaves harvested from local fields. garlic, sesame seeds, and chi chilies are added then flavored with salt and sugar. the mixture is frie