Under the gentle shade of the trees, a conversation begins in a garden, contrasting with the grim reality of Port-au-Prince. While the capital is shaken by gang violence, other parts of the country continue to live, resilient and full of hope. Margo Meeuwissen, engaged in rural development, shares insights into the challenges and adaptations of communities facing upheavals. But how can Haiti move forward when those in power perpetuate instability?
I am visiting a friend. We sit at a table in her garden. The trees and shrubs shield us from the sun. We talk about the situation in Port-au-Prince, the gangs’ new offensive, and the behavior of Haitian leaders. Before I leave, my friend offers me some products from her garden.
I am currently in Haiti to support the work of Bon Bagay Foundation, an organization dedicated to reforesting the mountains, raising awareness about climate change, and improving the livelihoods of farmers by developing agricultural value chains at both the national and international levels. Y carries out these initiatives with its partners in the Palmes region.
Getting to the region was a real challenge. With Port-au-Prince’s airport still closed and land access blocked by gangs in Gressier, I had to fly from Miami to Cap-Haïtien, then take another flight from Cap-Haïtien to Les Cayes, followed by a three-hour car journey to reach my accommodation. The cost of flights, controlled by a monopoly, was adjusted according to high demand.
Upon arriving in the region, I noticed that everything seemed as it was before: calm prevails, schools are open, and life goes on. Farmers are waiting for rain to plant, but, as in previous years, it is delayed—likely due to climate change.
Talking with locals, I realize that although the southern peninsula remains relatively stable and life continues, the situation has changed profoundly. Port-au-Prince, once a vital market for farmers from both the north and south, is now almost inaccessible. Gangs, backed by powerful actors, have isolated the capital from the rest of the country. This market, crucial due to its large consumer base, is no longer an option for many farmers, who must adapt by finding alternative outlets, whether locally or through export.
At the same time, major traders are increasing their imports of foreign goods into Port-au-Prince, taking advantage of the situation to further enrich themselves.
The prices of local products have doubled, making food self-sufficiency more critical than ever. In this context, Bon Bagay Foundation and its partners are seeing growing interest in environmental protection, reforestation, and climate change adaptation. The organization trains teachers, school principals, and religious leaders on these issues. During the training sessions, participants show great attentiveness and engage actively in discussions.
The region has welcomed many forcibly displaced people from Port-au-Prince and Gressier, leading to a significant population increase. While some have returned home, others still live in camps. The civil protection authorities of each commune coordinate their reception and care, with support from international NGOs.
During discussions with the population, many express surprise that the Core Group has accepted the composition of the nine-member Presidential Transition Council (CPT), despite several members facing corruption accusations and/or having ties to individuals sanctioned by the international community for corruption, gang financing, and contributing to the country’s instability.
How can Haiti hope to change and develop if these types of leaders continue to be endorsed by the international community?
As I leave their courtyard, I thank my friend for welcoming me and taking care of me. Back home, I still think about her good spirits and her remarkable strength of resistance.
