Haitians are coming together in inspiring ways to address the current waves of violence that are tearing the nation apart. Despite the challenges, many are stepping up to provide solutions through education, economic empowerment and health initiatives. The solutions lie not only with international interventions but with localized, focused efforts to address many of the root causes of the situation.
Leading the way are the many Rotary clubs across the nation, which are bringing the power of these business and professional people of action together, in order to provide much needed humanitarian services to their neighborhoods. These are some examples of the impact made by just one club, the Rotary Club of Petion-Ville Sud, which is the home club of the 2024-25 District 7020 Governor, Dominique Bazin.
Education. 15% of the world’s population aged 15+ cannot read or write. In Haiti, that percentage is an estimated 35%. Together with other grassroots organizations and local leaders, Rotarians in Haiti are working to create safe learning environments for children and adults alike. They are offering educational programmes that not only focus on literacy but also teach conflict resolution, civic engagement and community building. These efforts aim to equip the younger generation with the tools they need to build a more peaceful and productive future.
The club held a conference on literacy where various speakers addressed its impact on the development of the nation as a whole. This was later followed by distribution of school essentials to children at a local primary education facility.
Economy. Various initiatives are being launched to empower local communities. Small business support, vocational training and microfinance programmes are being offered to help individuals and families become more self-sufficient. By providing these opportunities, Haitians are working to reduce poverty and create more stable communities, which in turn can help curb the violence that often stems from economic desperation.
At a conference organised by the club, the focus was on local economic development and its importance in promoting sustainable, inclusive and resilient economic growth, followed later by a fair mobilising female artisans, creators and artists. The aim of this activity was to encourage and promote the production of national works of art and crafts. This event, blending the worlds of art, entrepreneurship and women’s empowerment, was a tribute to the vibrant spirit of Haitian women for their contribution to the local economy.
Health initiatives are also playing a crucial role in this movement. With the country facing significant public health challenges, including the aftermath of natural disasters and a lack of adequate healthcare infrastructure, local organisations are stepping in to provide essential services. They are organising health clinics, mental health support groups and public health campaigns to address both physical and psychological needs. By improving access to healthcare, these initiatives are helping to stabilize communities and reduce the tensions that can lead to violence.
With assistance from the Ministry of Health and Food for the Poor, the Club was able to obtain medicines and food products. Screening tests, health care and disease prevention services were carried out for around 300 patients. A medical team composed of around thirty doctors and pharmacists, was able to provide health care and advice to the people concerned. Beyond health services, the Rotary Club of Pétion-Ville Sud distributed more than 340 food kits and hygiene products to patients and other residents.
Rotary Clubs Step Up
All Rotary Clubs in Haiti, like the Rotary Club of Petion-Ville Sud, are cognisant of the importance of education, economic opportunities and health, for the stablisation of the nation.
These are just a few examples of the tireless efforts of Haitians Helping Haitians. With ongoing support from ALL the local Rotary clubs in Haiti, the efforts of Haitians to help one another during this difficult time are a testament to the resilience and strength of the nation. Through education, economic empowerment and health initiatives, they are working together, to create a brighter, more peaceful future for Haiti.
Information and photos courtesy of the Rotary Club of Petion-Ville Sud
ECONOMY: Empowerment of female artists
EDUCATION: Distribution of school supplies
HEALTH: Crowd lines up for Health Checks