Haiti Country Programme

Haiti is one of the poorest countries in the world. Around 60% of the population lives in poverty and at least 40% can neither read nor write. Some of the main causes of the country's precarious situation are political, economic and ecological instability, poor governance and neglect of public investment. In addition, the country was hit hard by a devastating earthquake in 2010 and a subsequent cholera epidemic, and several hurricanes in recent years. In fact, recurrent natural disasters and increasing food security linked to drought, shocks and instability have been constant threats to people's livelihoods. HEKS/EPER has therefore been working at the nexus between development cooperation and humanitarian aid to help the population of very remote areas in Grand'Anse developing and showcasing their community initiatives for more resilience, well-being and autonomy.

Our Country Program in Haiti is helping to improve living conditions for the population in the remote mountain areas of Grand'Anse. Access to basic services is being improved through improvements in rural infrastructure. Families generate better incomes through improved agroecological production, value-addition, marketing and protection and sustainable use of coastal and terrestrial biodiversity. Community governance is strengthened and a rights-based dialogue between rural communities and the local authorities is promoted. All projects also aim to strengthen the autonomy and resilience of local families.