Haiti

The European Commission Humanitarian Aid department and its partners - working to reinforce food security in Haïti

The lack of food, the absence of agricultural diversity, insufficient health education, droughts - the problems of malnutrition and food security have numerous dimensions and are a major preoccupation for the people of Haïti.

It is estimated that around 3 million Haïtians are in a precarious situation: 23% suffer from chronic malnutrition and 4.5% from acute malnutrition.  The recurrent tropical storms and hurricanes in August and September 2008 have exacerbated the problem. Due to the combination of high prices, increasing transport costs, the damage from the recent storms and the reduction of foreign investments, it is expected that food security will continue to deteriorate over the coming months.

To assist the population, the European Commission recently allocated an additional €6 million to provide relief for up to 1 million people.  This aid focuses on food security and nutrition, in addition to public health measures to improve nutrition (water, sanitation and hygiene).

In the Cayes region in the south of Haïti, first impressions are deceptive.  In every direction there is lush vegetation and cultivated fields.  With this in mind, it is difficult to imagine that this region is unable to produce sufficient food for its population.  The area is exposed to frequent drought followed by torrential rainfall.  Two of the Commission's partners, "Terre des Hommes" and the UN's FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation), are carrying out remarkable work providing of health education, clinics for under-nourished children, support to diversify agriculture and the installation of water tanks.

Mérita De Faite, small-holder and mother of six children smiles broadly: « Before, it used to take me two hours to fetch water for my vegetable garden.  We now have water available right here on our doorstep" » She continues: « We have also received seeds and we are being trained to grow new types of vegetables. Thanks to this, we will now be able to grow enough food to feed ourselves ».

Raphaël Brigandi
ECHO Information Officer