Détails

Catégorie : What's up Little Haiti

Création : 14 décembre 2023

 
Strategic Kenya-Haiti Meeting on the Deployment of the Multinational Force

paptimesnewsDecember 6, 2023

An atmosphere imbued with enthusiasm prevailed as Haitian Prime Minister, Ariel Henry, warmly welcomed a distinguished delegation from Kenya. Comprising Kenyan diplomats and American envoys, this delegation meticulously laid the foundation for a new era of diplomatic cooperation between the two nations.

Discussions between the delegation and Prime Minister Henry delved into uncharted territories, placing emphasis on collaboration across diverse domains. The primary goal was to forge robust connections for a mutually beneficial partnership, diverging from the well-trodden paths of traditional diplomacy.

In addition to fruitful exchanges with the Prime Minister, the delegation engaged in constructive dialogues with the Director General of Police, Frantz Elbe, as well as prominent members of the Transitional High Council. These meetings unveiled unprecedented prospects for cooperation in security and coordination, serving as pivotal elements in the establishment of a enduring relationship.

It is worth noting that the Minister of Justice and the Director General of Police are gearing up for an upcoming visit to Kenya. This promising initiative aims to solidify bilateral ties and finalize essential logistical details for future mutually advantageous endeavors. A new era of diplomatic partnership seems to be unfolding, promising stimulating opportunities for both nations.

3rd Annual HELP-BFA Scholarship Dinner

Hello Friends,

It is with great pleasure that I invite you to join us on January 6th in Miami at The Citadel for our 3rd Annual HELP BFA Scholarship Fund dinner. It promises to be an evening of fun: good food, good music, open bar and above all wonderful company.

Despite the challenging situation in Haiti these days, we forge ahead soundly in the knowledge that the talented, motivated, young students whose education we support today will be the leaders that drive sustained economic growth and stability for Haiti tomorrow. And with respect to that effort, we do have wonderful news to share as we approach the $1 million raised milestone for the scholarship fund. All of which goes directly to the education of Haiti's brightest youth in need. Find out more about our progress here: BFA Scholarship Fund with HELP homepage

This amazing effort has only been made possible through your kind and generous support!

So with that, consider this your formal invitation to come celebrate with us - and give me the opportunity to thank you in person.

Where: The Citadel Miami

When: January 6th, 6:30-9pm

RSVP here: RSVP for 3rd Annual BFA Scholarship Dinner with HELP

Guests and friends are more than welcome.

Looking forward to seeing you,

Karl

National Center of Haitian Apostolate 

REFLECTIONS ON THE 2nd SUNDAY OF ADVENT 10-12-23

Isaiah 40, 1-11; Psalm 84; 2 Peter 3, 8-14; Mark 1, 1-8

Msgr. Pierre André Pierre

https://youtu.be/7tLSUuRef4Y?si=XKhPhAfarXY6bEzB

In the Desert Prepare the Way for the Lord. This Second Sunday of Advent brings us closer to welcoming Christ into our communities and the world at Christmas. For many people, Christmas looks like a routine that Christians repeat every year. In the Liturgy, on the contrary, the Church makes us live the mystery of our salvation in Jesus Christ. It includes a teaching and a responsibility: Only God’s grace saves humankind; as a responsibility, everyone must be involved.

Isaiah announces a consolation for God's people if they repent. Unfaithful though they are, when in their sufferings they cry out to God, He delivers them, in the desert and during the exile and imprisonment in Babylon: "Comfort, give comfort to my people, says the Lord... A voice cries out: "In the desert, prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight in the wasteland a highway for our God!" Cry out the good news: "Here is your God." He cares for his people as a Shepherd protects his flock. 

Psalm 85 insists that we repent and turn back to the God of salvation. The Lord has shown patience with us. In his second Letter, St. Peter reminds us that God gives us a lifetime for conversion. The Lord does not delay his promise. He will come unexpectedly. He offers us, however, a thousand opportunities to prepare for His coming. He is patient with us, not wishing that anyone should perish but that all should come to repentance. He wants everyone to be saved.

This Good News is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. St. Mark affirms this truth in his gospel, in a very simple way, without Angels, or music, or shepherds near Bethlehem. He takes back what the Prophet Isaiah said about the Desert People. The messenger is John the Baptist preaching in the desert a baptism of conversion: "Prepare the way of the Lord." Make his paths straight. John brings an additional light on the Savior. He is not even worthy to untie his sandals. He who comes after me will baptize us in the Holy Spirit.” Conversion and sincere repentance are indispensable conditions for salvation.

Our responsibility is to prepare ourselves. How are we preparing for the second coming of Jesus? What do we do to spread the Good News of love, justice, and peace? In our activities, attitudes, and relationships, do we walk the path of integrity and fidelity, of trust in God and trust in each other? Do we remember that confession is also a path? Are we spiritually connected to God in prayer? Are we serious about the importance of Jesus' return? Can we say: "Here is our God," in whose name we work to make this earth new? John the Baptist calls us to lead a life of repentance and conversion. His bath of purification will prepare us for the return of Jesus. Let's decide to welcome him as the good shepherd who can lead us on the road to happiness that this life cannot give. Christmas will make us discover the greatness, beauty, and love of the one who is coming.

Thursday, December 07, 2023

New book explores Rwanda's development model

Patrick Nzabonimpa 
Thursday, December 07, 2023

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Fourteen local and international experts across various fields have collaborated to co-author “Rwanda: A Model for Haiti”, an anthology of essays that explores the ‘Rwandan model’ and its constituents that could potentially and intelligently be emulated in Haiti.

Compiled and edited by Joe E. Sully, a Haitian-American author, and journalist, the collaborative book presents a wealth of ideas, expert opinions, and data, drawing parallels between Rwanda’s success story and the challenges and opportunities facing Haiti.

The contributing authors span the fields of diplomacy, economics, technology, education, culture, politics, reconciliation, and national unity, among others.

Some copies of the newly launched book entitled 'Rwanda a model for Haiti

The ones from Rwanda include Marie Immaculee Ingabire, the Chairperson of Transparency International Rwanda; Richard Hategekimana, the Chairman of the Rwanda Writers Federation; Viateur Ndikumana, the Vice Chancellor of Kibogora Polytechnic University; Callixte Kabera, the Vice Chancellor of East Africa University and Epimaque Twagirimana, the Vice Chairperson of Pan-African Movement Rwanda Chapter.

Other contributing authors and experts include Indran Amirthanayagam, Sri Lankan-American poet-diplomat, Dimitri Bien-Aimé, an international affairs and development practitioner, Aurore François, a life coach and educational consultant, Huguens Jean, a software models specialist and electrical engineer; João Melo, an author, professor and former Angolan Government official, Hillary Thomas-Lake, specialist in conflict management, post-conflict reconstruction and state-society relations, Marc-Arthur Pierre-Louis, software engineer and author, as well as Jessica Xiao, a writer, and journalist.

According to Sully, also the founder of Bridgevision Production, an American communication, publishing, and production company, the inspiration for the anthology comes from the “remarkable progress Rwanda has achieved since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.”

Having visited the country in January, Sully was impressed by the combination of modern infrastructure and traditional life in Rwanda, embodying the vision of the government.

“I’ve read books about Rwanda and the leadership, particularly President Paul Kagame, but I had the opportunity to come here to see with my own eyes, the manifestation, a realisation of the vision behind the government of this country,” he said.

Participants pose for a group photo at a pre- launch event in Kigali on December 3.

Wanting to share the story credibly, Sully brought together the experts with the goal of explaining Rwanda’s model, showcasing the country’s transformation from a post-genocide economy loss of over 40 per cent to becoming one of the most stable places in Africa.

“We’re trying to explain that so that the world, the people in Washington D.C., where I’m based, can know about that story,” he said.

Sully further highlighted the belief that Rwanda could serve as a model for Haiti and other developing nations’ reconstruction efforts, citing the intelligent strategies implemented since 1994.

“Rwanda: A Model for Haiti,” he added, also aims to promote a sense of pan-Africanism and unity among black people, drawing parallels between the experiences of Haiti and Rwanda.

In addition to a poem penned by Indran Amirthanayagam, which reflects on the Rwandan experience and draws connections between Rwanda and Haiti, the anthology primarily comprises essays covering various aspects including insights into the Rwandan education system, the nation’s economy, efforts towards national unity and reconciliation, diplomatic strategies, and Rwanda’s utilisation of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) to shape its foreign policy.

The anthology also delves into intelligent governance practices, emphasising transparency, anti-corruption measures, and other pertinent topics.

“Rwanda: A Model for Haiti” was unveiled in Rwanda on December 3, with a private book launch event dedicated to acknowledging the contributors from Rwanda. Plans for the book’s distribution include an official launch in Rwanda and various states across the USA, among other locations, according to Sully.

The hard copies of the book are available at the Bridgevision Production Rwanda office in Kimihurura, as well as Ikirezi and Caritas libraries. It is also available on Amazon.

Détails

Catégorie : What's up Little Haiti

Création : 24 novembre 2023

 WORLD NEWS

Kenya’s high court extends a block on sending police to Haiti even as parliament approves deployment

BY EMMANUEL IGUNZA

Updated 12:33 PM EST, November 16, 2023

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NAIROBI, Kenya (AP) — Kenya’s high court on Thursday extended orders blocking the deployment of police officers to Haiti, even as parliament approved a government request to send 1,000 officers to the Caribbean nation to help deal with gang violence.

High Court Judge Chacha Mwita said he would issue a ruling on Jan. 26, effectively delaying the sending of security officers to Haiti, where they are slated to lead a multinational force backed by the U.N Security Council.

The planned deployment was first blocked by the High Court in Nairobi in October.

Whatever decision is reached by the High Court in January may be appealed, meaning there could be a protracted battle over sending the troops to Haiti.

US National Gallery of Art receives its first works of Haitian art, via two gifts

The 15 works, donated by two collecting couples, will form the core of an exhibition in autumn 2024

Philomé Obin, President Tiresias Sam entering Cap-Haitien, 1958. Gift of Kay and Roderick Heller Courtesy the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC

The National Gallery of Art (NGA) in Washington, DC, announced today that it has received a gift of 15 works of art by modern and contemporary Haitian artists, and that the suite of works will be on view in an exhibition slated for autumn 2024. These are the first pieces by Haitian artists to be added to the NGA’s permanent collection. Of the 15 works, 13 are paintings while two are sequined flags by the artist Myrlande Constant.

The pieces were donated to the museum from the collections of two couples: Kay and Roderick Heller and Beverly and John Fox Sullivan. They range from as early as the 1940s to as recently as 2001. A number of the artists included in the donation were associated with Centre d’Art, a school, gallery and cultural hub in Port-au-Prince founded in 1944 by American artist DeWitt Peters. The full list of artists included in these donations is: Castera Bazile, Rigaud Benoit, Wilson Bigaud, Myrlande Constant, Edouard Duval-Carrié, Hector Hyppolite, Philomé Obin, Andre Pierre, Louisiane Saint Fleurant and Gerard Valcin.

“Assembled with great care, curiosity and passion over many decades, the Heller and Sullivan collections demonstrate the remarkable spirit and strength of artistic production across the Republic of Haiti,” Kaywin Feldman, the NGA’s director, said in a statement. “We are immensely grateful for these generous gifts as they contribute to the National Gallery’s representation of the African Diaspora. The works included in the gift relate meaningfully to our collection of work by African American artists and enable us to tell significant global, transnational stories.”

Myrlande Constant, Guede Djable 2 Cornes, undated. From the collection of John and Beverly Fox Sullivan Courtesy the National Gallery of Art, Washington, DC

The autumn 2024 exhibition is tentatively titled Spirit and Strength, and was curated by Kanitra Fletcher, associate curator of African American and Afro-Diasporic art at the museum, with the assistance of art historian Justin M. Brown. Fletcher is the NGA’s first-ever curator of African American art, a position she has held since 2021. The 2024 show will also feature works related to the Haitian Indigenist Movement, as well as works by African American artists who traveled to or drew inspiration from Haiti, such as Jacob Lawrence, Lois Mailou Jones and William Edouard Scott.

“To have our 40-year passion for collecting Haitian art validated by the National Gallery brings us such joy and pleasure,” said John Fox Sullivan, who is, alongside his wife Beverly, the benefactor behind seven of the 15 donated pieces.

Roderick Heller, who donated the rest of the works alongside his wife Kay, added: “Sharing our appreciation of Haitian art with Beverly and John Sullivan as well as other friends has been an inspirational and instructive experience. We are so pleased that the uniqueness and significance of these works are being recognised by the National Gallery and presented to a much wider audience.”

National Center of Haitian Apostolate

REFLECTIONS ON THE READINGS - 33^rd SUNDAY YEAR A (Nov. 19, 2023)

Proverbs 31, 10-20; Psalm 128; 1 Thessalonians 5, 1-6; Matthew 25, 14-30

Msgr. Pierre André Pierre

Sunday after Sunday, we gather in Church to celebrate our faith, to worship the resurrected Lord, and to follow his command: “Do this in memory of me.” Today at the end of the liturgical year the moment has come for accountability: the Church stresses the theme of the Last Judgement.

The story told by Jesus is called the Parable of the Talents. It sounds like judgment, with reward and punishment. A master leaving for a long journey entrusts his property to three servants who must give an account upon his return. The first one receives five talents; the second receives two; and the third one. When the owner returns from his trip at an unexpected time, the servants report the fruits of their work. The first two doubled the stake through their work. They are praised and promoted. The third servant did nothing and buried his talent. He is afraid. He justifies his laziness by fear of the master's faults. The master blamed him for having done nothing. If with his talent, he had produced a second talent, just one, he would have had the same compliments as the first two. 

It is up to everyone to develop the talents received, to make them bear fruit; and not to bury his abilities, his possibilities, his gifts. It does not matter if the profit was two or five, even if the value of one talent is 10.000 US$. Everyone grew according to the gifts received and according to their abilities. The Compliments are not based on the master's profit but on the work of each person, to their extent.

The message from this parable is clear: Jesus wants us to be responsible partners in his mission of salvation. His Father runs a great risk because he trusts us and entrusts us with the world, his estate so that we can recreate it, make it more habitable, more human, more at peace. Above all, He entrusts us with his children, our brothers and sisters, to love and care for. We are called to build with them the human family. 

For that purpose, God equipped us with good talents. Everything that we have, our qualities or our abilities, are gifts from Him. It is up to everyone to develop them, to make them bear fruit, and not to bury them. No one who has received a talent from God, but has not paid attention to it, will be able to grow or progress. While on the opposite side, those who try to grow their relationship with God will never stop growing in it. God gives his good news and his help to everyone, but we must know how to listen, receive it, and then make it bear fruit on a daily basis. Only those who through hard work enrich God’s kingdom will be largely rewarded. The lazy, the careless, and the irresponsible are to be rejected into the place of torment and grinding teeth. In other terms, we must be “good stewards” of God’s gifts.

Our talent is our life, and it is a gift, not to bury and recover when He comes, but to deliver now and be put at the service of our brothers and sisters. Paul reminds all Christians that the final coming of Jesus is unpredictable. The Lord is coming. We live in waiting: A wait full of peace, trust, and light, responsibly prepare for the second coming through vigilance and labors of love! The time for accountability is near. The Christian is not afraid of the Day of the Lord, because he lives in the love of God and his brothers. We are the one-talented servant. "He who loses his life will gain it; he who saves his life will lose it."

OAS Adopts Resolution on the Situation in Haiti

U.S. Mission OAS

Remarks by
Ambassador Francisco O. Mora
November 17, 2023

Mr. Chairman and colleagues, the United States welcomes the adoption of today’s OAS Permanent Council resolution concerning the security situation in Haiti.  

This resolution represents a crucial step forward in addressing the pressing challenges Haiti faces, and reaffirms our collective commitment to supporting the people of Haiti in their quest for peace, security, and stability. 

First and foremost, I would like to commend the leadership of Ambassador Phillips-Spencer, the chair of our Working Group on Haiti, in coordinating today’s text.  We express our gratitude to him and the delegation of Trinidad and Tobago for aiding our Organization in responding to Haiti’s call for assistance. 

We also recognize the willingness of Kenya to positively consider leading the new Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti. Their initiative is testament to a strong dedication to international peace and security.  

Mr. Chair, the United Nations Security Council’s authorization of the MSS mission on October 2, through a resolution co-penned by the United States and Ecuador, was a historic moment. It marked a significant turning point in our collective efforts to address the multidimensional crisis that has plagued Haiti, characterized by alarming levels of gang violence, insecurity, and a dire humanitarian situation. 

We extend our appreciation to Ecuador for its tireless work on that resolution, demonstrating through action a strong commitment to the cause of peace and stability in Haiti. 

The new MSS mission, which was initiated at the request of the Haitian government, the UN Secretary General, and various members of civil society, addresses the urgent need to combat insecurity and provide immediate support to the Haitian National Police.  

Its success depends on a truly multinational effort, and we urge all fellow OAS member states to contribute funding, equipment, training, and personnel to ensure the mission’s success. 

While the MSS mission is a significant step forward, it is just one part of a broader effort to address Haiti’s multifaceted crisis. Our resolution today clearly underscores this point. 

This crisis encompasses acute food insecurity, humanitarian challenges, economic difficulties, and political instability. To address these issues comprehensively, the MSS mission will closely coordinate with the UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and relevant UN agencies. It will also be important to ensure coordination and support on the part of Inter-American bodies, including the OAS Haiti Working Group. 

The MSS mission is committed to operating in strict compliance with international law, with a focus on anti-gang operations, community-oriented policing, and protecting vulnerable groups, including women and children.  

It will also take necessary measures to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse, upholding the highest standards of conduct and discipline. 

We are heartened by the strong and united response from the international community, including on the part of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights and particularly the support from Jamaica, Bahamas, Barbados, and Antigua and Barbuda — who have pledged personnel to the mission. We acknowledge the leadership they have demonstrated. 

Mr. Chair, as we have heard in various OAS meetings, the adoption of the Chapter VII UN Security Council resolution was a requirement for many contributing nations, and it underscores a collective commitment to addressing Haiti’s urgent needs.  

Since October 2022, the United States has taken steps to impose sanctions and visa restrictions on over 50 individuals for undermining Haiti’s democratic processes, supporting or financing gangs and criminal organizations, or engaging in significant corruption and human rights violations. We call on all OAS member states to impose these sanctions. 

Taken together, colleagues, these steps reflect what President Biden emphasized at the recent UN General Assembly: “The people of Haiti cannot wait much longer.”  With the adoption of these new UN and OAS resolutions, we can now work together to answer that call. 

In terms of next steps, colleagues, the OAS Working Group on Haiti has a critical role to play in facilitating regional contributions and support for the implementation of the UN Security Council resolutions. We urge the Working Group to prioritize these efforts and work closely with all member and observer states, as well as the Government of Kenya, to ensure the success of the MSS mission. 

The global community owes a debt of gratitude to Kenya and all the nations that have pledged their support for this mission to date. Together, we must now focus on mobilizing support needed to deploy the mission swiftly, effectively, and safely.  

Of course, we recognize that the ultimate resolution of the situation in Haiti must be determined by the Haitian people themselves.  

In conclusion, the United States reaffirms its strong commitment to the people of Haiti and will continue to advocate for free and fair elections as soon as conditions permit. The conduct of these overdue elections is essential to restoring democratic governance and enabling Haiti to overcome its current challenges. 

Together, we can make a difference in the lives of the Haitian people and help them on their path towards peace, stability, and prosperity.  

Thank you very much, Chair. 

Détails

Catégorie : What's up Little Haiti

Création : 10 novembre 2023

 Haiti Bans Charter Flights to Nicaragua in Blow to Migrants Fleeing Poverty and Violence

Associated PressPORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti —

Haiti's government has banned all charter flights to Nicaragua that migrants fleeing poverty and violence had been increasingly using in their quest to reach the United States, according to a bulletin issued Monday that The Associated Press obtained.

Haiti's government did not provide an explanation for the decision in its bulletin, which was first reported by The Miami Herald. Civil aviation authorities in Haiti did not respond to a message seeking comment.

The move left a couple of thousand angry and bewildered travelers stranded in a parking lot facing Haiti's main international airport in the capital of Port-au-Prince surrounded by their luggage, with some holding babies.

"I have to seek a better life elsewhere because Haiti doesn't offer my generation anything," said 29-year-old Jean-Marc Antoine. "It's either hold a gun and be involved with a gang, be killed or leave the country."

His brother in Chile had loaned him $4,000 for the plane ticket, and like many of the stranded passengers, he fretted about whether he would get his money back.

Nearby, Marie-Ange Solomon, 58, said she had been calling the charter company repeatedly on Monday to no avail. She had paid $7,000 total to leave Haiti with her son.

"After gathering money to get me and my son out of this fragile country, now all of a sudden they stop everything," she said. "I thought I was going to be freed today."

Thousands of Haitians were stranded at the Port-au-Prince Airport on Oct. 30, after the government banned all charter flights to Nicaragua as migrants sought to flee the poverty and violence in their country.

Solomon kept an eye on their bags as her 28-year-old son ran to the airport repeatedly in case someone called their names.

More than 260 flights departing Haiti and believed to have carried up to 31,000 migrants have landed in the Central American country of Nicaragua since early August as Haiti's crisis deepens, with gangs estimated to now control up to 80% of Port-au-Prince. The number of migrants represent nearly 60% of all U.S.-Mexico border Haitian arrivals, said Manuel Orozco, director of the migration, remittances and development program at the Inter-American Dialogue.

Experts have said that seats on charter flights to Nicaragua can range from $3,000 to $5,000, with Nicaragua a popular destination because it does not require visas for certain migrants.

"The magnitude of the flights are just completely unusual ... and it represents a security risk," Orozco said in a phone interview.

He questioned whether the suspension of the charter flights was prompted by outside pressure, adding that he did not know if the U.S. government was involved.

Orozco noted that there were no charter flights from Port-au-Prince to Nicaragua last January and that the three daily flights that began in late July had grown to 11 flights a day.

The suspension of charter flights could prompt Haitian migrants to seek other ways to flee their country, he said.

"I think Dominicans will probably at this point organize themselves or cross their fingers that there is not a cross-over," Orozco said.

The two countries share the island of Hispaniola but are now in a dispute over construction of a canal in Haiti that would divert water from a river that runs along the border. Dominican President Luis Abinader announced last month that his government would stop issuing visas to Haitians and he closed the border to all Haitians seeking to cross for work, education, medical issues or other purposes.

With another migration route popular with Haitians closing on Monday, frustration began to build among the stranded passengers.

"Can you imagine that I spent all this money? I sold everything that I had," Jean Erode Louis-Saint, 25, whose flight was scheduled for mid-afternoon Monday but he never received a boarding pass. "I cannot stay in this country because of the lack of security. Gangs are everywhere."

He used to work along the border that Haiti shares with the Dominican Republic exchanging currencies but has struggled to find another job.

"I cannot do anything in Haiti anymore," he said as he stood with a backpack on his back surrounded by thousands of other passengers.

Many were reluctant to leave in case there was a sudden change in plans, but by late afternoon, the crowd began to thin out as people left.

Among them was 35-year-old Saint-Ville Etienne, a civil engineer who was hoping for a better life so he could care for the 14-year-old son he would have left behind.

"Haiti is in a state of war among its own people," he said. "I don't know why they are fighting. It's only causing everybody to leave the country."

William O'Neill, Expert on the human rights situation in Haiti, concludes his official visit

Port-au-Prince (October 31, 2023) Mesye dam bonjou (Greetings everyone). Allow me to begin by thanking the authorities for their support for my mandate, BINUH for the welcome and support they have extended to me, as well as the civil society organizations and the victims I have been able to meet.

I have just concluded my second official visit to Haiti. I continue to be alarmed by the worrying situation, which is spreading rapidly to other departments, notably Artibonite and Nord-Ouest. Murders, injuries and kidnappings are the daily lot of the population. Sexual violence against women and girls remains endemic, and no progress has been made in terms of access to services and justice for survivors since my last visit.  

I am particularly concerned about the impact of insecurity and violence on children. The testimonies received are stunning. An entire generation is seemingly being sacrificed by violence, and the future of a country is threatened by the dramatic situation faced by its youth. I urge the authorities to give priority to addressing the situation of children.

Many have suffered - and continue to suffer - severe violence and violations of their rights. They are also victims of the catastrophic humanitarian situation, with access to health, water, food and education severely hampered. This is particularly the case in underprivileged neighbourhoods controlled by gangs and deserted by the State. I have received numerous reports that many children suffer from wasting, the deadliest form of malnutrition. Over 500,000 youths have no access to education. Many children from these neighbourhoods are recruited by gangs, for lack of opportunities, or by fear of reprisals.

The Haitian justice system remains dysfunctional and ill-equipped to protect children at risk or to judge minors in conflict with the law. The Juvenile Court is paralyzed. I visited Cermicol, the juvenile prison in Port-au-Prince, and found it alarmingly overcrowded, with an occupancy rate in excess of 350%, as well as unhygienic conditions and a lack of access to drinking water, exposing children to disease. 99% of the minors held in the prison have not been convicted, and most are in prolonged pre-trial detention. They have been incarcerated for years for stealing a chicken, shoes or a telephone, without ever having seen a judge. I was nonetheless encouraged by the setting up of an intergovernmental commission to relieve overcrowding in the prisons. We need results quickly.

I am also concerned about the situation of internally displaced people. There are at least 200,000 displaced people in Haiti. Many are living in inhumane conditions, without access to basic services, surviving in makeshift camps. I have received appalling accounts of children and elderly people sleeping on the ground, next to mounds of garbage and without access to drinking water. I also heard of women and girls are repeatedly raped, with no access to healthcare. The State must assume its responsibilities not only to prevent human rights violations and abuses, but also to protect its population, especially the most vulnerable.

I heard a strong desire for the arrival of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) among the Haitian population. The imminent deployment of this mission, under strict conditions of respect and protection of human rights, is necessary to alleviate the suffering of the population. However, it is essential that this mission anticipates and takes the measure of the current challenges if it is to succeed in its long-term objective. Many of these measures will require the population to regain confidence in its institutions.

These must be strengthened, in particular through reliable and transparent public control systems to curb corruption and impunity. In particular, the Haitian National Police (PNH) must speed up the vetting of its officers, and the judicial system must complete the certification of its magistrates. Codes of ethics must be implemented. I reiterate my encouragement for the work carried out by the Unité de Lutte contre la Corruption (ULCC) to combat the scourge of corruption. 

The international sanctions regime has sent out a strong signal to dismantle the networks of corruption that plague the country. It must also be accompanied by national prosecutions to put an end to impunity. I reiterate my appeal to the international community to put an end to the illegal trafficking of arms and munitions that circulates in Haiti and continues to claim many victims every day.

A major challenge is the fact that many gang members are children. It will be necessary to implement rehabilitation and reintegration programs for the vast majority of them. According to many actors interviewed, it is essential that the State plays a key role in rebuilding the social and economic model to enable the most vulnerable to find opportunities locally and thus avoid the mass departure of populations in search of better days.

Finally, I visited the canal under construction on the Massacre River in Ouanaminthe, as well as the border with the Dominican Republic. I continue to hear reports of the disastrous impact of the border closure on access to health, water and food. I reiterate my call for dialogue and the passage of aid to protect vulnerable populations from the dramatic humanitarian impact of this measure. I would also like to pay tribute to the work of the police in Ouanaminthe and Fort Liberté, who have succeeded in bringing the situation of violence in the department under control, thanks to community and proximity policing. 32 police officers have been killed since the beginning of the year. 

Ensuring the safety and protection of the population is a priority. Overcoming institutional shortcomings and strengthening the rule of law remain fundamental prerequisites for long-term change. Let's not repeat the mistakes of the past.

Mysion mwen an fini men travay la ap kontinye. Mèsi anpil (My mission ends but the work goes on. I thank you from the bottom of my heart).

National Center of Haitian Apostolate

REFLECTIONS ON THE READINGS OF THE 31^st SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME (Nov. 5^th, 2023)

Malachi 1; Psalm 131; 1 Thessalonians 2, 7-9; Matthew 23, 1-12

Msgr. Pierre André Pierre              

Brothers and sisters, 

From the Prophet Malachi to the Gospel of Matthew, and the first Letter of Paul to the Thessalonians, the word of God today calls our attention to humility. The absolute opposite is pride, arrogance, and selfishness. 

Everyone takes their place, the priests, the people, the scribes, and the Pharisees. The prophet reproaches the priests of his time to pervert the covenant with God. Jesus investigates the words and behavior of the Pharisees. Their function is to devote themselves to God and seek his glory, to teach the Law given to them by Moses. However, instead of thinking about the glory of God, they only seek their own interest. They make religion a business. They manipulate the Law of Moses for their own purposes. Do not follow their example. They do not work for God but for the gallery. They look for the best places. They seek honors and titles. Everything is a facade, inside full of skeletons. This is hypocrisy. 

The search for power and wealth, the race for honors and privileges, are not only abuses in the time of Malachi, or in the time of Jesus. Nowadays, it may no longer be a question of phylacteries and very long fringes, but of car brands, of extravagant lifestyles, and excessive wealth, displayed in broad daylight, which become an insult to the billions of poor people on the planet. The desire to appear then becomes the goal of life. Jesus tells his disciples to stop giving themselves high-sounding titles that risk creating a misleading appearance. His authority is exclusively an authority of service and liberation: he forgives, he heals, he restores his feet, he gives a second chance, he opens a future. This allows us to move forward with joy. “ I tell you this so that your joy may be complete .” (John 15, 11) Just watch those who meet Jesus flourish: the Samaritan woman, Zacchaeus, Mary Magdalene, the blind, the lepers...

Following in the footsteps of Jesus as his model, St. Paul expresses his love for the community of Thessalonica that he served. This very beautiful text provides us with a remarkable portrait of the true pastor: He is “ full of gentleness, like a mother with her babies ”. He is filled with “affection” for them, wanting to give them “not only the Gospel” but everything that he himself is. He toils and tires night and day so as not to be a burden to others. 

Psalm 131,1 reminds us of the secret of life: "In you, Lord, I have found my peace. O LORD, my heart is not proud; nor are my eyes haughty. I busy not myself with great things, nor with things too sublime for me. " 

The Lord invites his disciples to embrace Humility. Yes, Truth is hidden in HUMILITY. 

Détails

Catégorie : What's up Little Haiti

Création : 23 octobre 2023

 The EU Humanitarian Aid provided 2.5 million euros to combat child malnutrition in Haiti

In Haiti more than 100,000 children under five are in urgent need of care for severe wasting

 Port-au-Prince, Haiti - In response to the alarming evolution of the humanitarian crisis in Haiti, UNICEF has received essential financial support of 2.5 million euros from the EU Humanitarian Aid Department (ECHO) to address the devastating effects of child wasting among, concentrated in the most vulnerable areas of the country.

This assistance comes at a critical time as Haiti faces a worrying situation, as reported in the latest SMART nutritional survey, which revealed alarming levels of wasting across the country where more than 100,000 children under the age of five are in urgent need of treatment for severe wasting (also known as severe acute malnutrition). The situation is particularly concerning in the Port-au-Prince metropolitan area and the Artibonite department.  

The rapid deterioration of Haiti's socio-economic context, marked by protracted violence and widespread insecurity, has led to an alarming rise in malnutrition rates across the country. Immediate action is imperative to prevent further deterioration in the nutritional situation and reduce malnutrition-related mortality. 

"In times of crisis, nutrition is more important than ever. Every second counts. Malnutrition is deadly: a child suffering from severe acute malnutrition is nine times more likely to die than a well-nourished child” says UNICEF Representative in Haiti, Bruno Maes.  

UNICEF is firmly committed to tackling this nutritional crisis in Haiti, and to ensuring that the most vulnerable children receive the care and support they need to thrive in an already precarious environment. 

"This funding from the EU Humanitarian aid will help us rapidly scale-up our response and improve early access to and quality of severe acute malnutrition treatment in the country” he explains.   

As part of this vital partnership, DG ECHO will actively support UNICEF Haiti's efforts to strengthen early detection and referral of children suffering from wasting. This crucial support will also ensure that the most vulnerable children receive appropriate care in a timely manner. 

A significant proportion of ECHO's aid will be devoted to ensuring the provision of quality care to around 40,000 children under five suffering from severe wasting. This care will be provided through existing health systems and community platforms, ensuring an integrated approach to the treatment of child malnutrition. 

Recognizing the fundamental importance of prevention, this partnership will work to strengthen wasting prevention measures. The aim is to ensure that women and children in Haiti have continued access to improved nutrition, appropriate care, and basic health and nutrition services, thereby helping to reduce the risk of malnutrition. 

Effective management of the nutrition supply chain plays an essential role in the fight against malnutrition. This initiative will include measures to ensure an uninterrupted pipeline of Ready-to-use Therapeutic Products (RUTFs), which are vital for the treatment of children suffering from severe wasting. 

With the aim of improving the overall response to the nutritional crisis, this partnership will also include efforts to strengthen nutrition information systems as well as coordination mechanisms at national and sub-national levels, ensuring better monitoring and a more effective response to the nutritional needs of Haitian children. 

"UNICEF and the EU Humanitarian Aid are committed to scaling up and sustaining our efforts to reach more children with life-saving nutrition assistance. Our shared values motivate us to ensure that all children in Haiti enjoy their right to adequate nutrition” M. Maes concludes. 

For more information about UNICEF and its work visit: www.unicef.org 

Follow UNICEF on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube 

Gessika Thomas

Communication Officer

UNICEF Haiti, BP 1363

17, rue Armand Holly, Debussy, Port-au-Prince

Office +509 2812 3010

Mobile +509 47503125

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Haití en la OEA: “La construcción del canal no va a parar, el gobierno de Haití reclama ese derecho”

https://listindiario.com/las-mundiales/haiti/20231012/embajador-haitiano-oea-construccion-canal-parar-gobierno-haiti-reclama-derecho_777104.html

Manifestó que RD debe reconocer el derecho que tienen como nación, para la utilización de las aguas del río en el riego del suelo y cultivos agrícolas.

Leon Charles, embajador haitiano ante la OEAFUENTE EXTERNA.ntarios

MELANIE CUEVASSanto Domingo, RD

Actualizada jueves, 12 de octubre de 2023 - 17:08

El embajador haitiano ante la Organización de Estados Americanos (OEA), Leon Charles, fue enfático al manifestar que Haití no paralizará la construcción del canal sobre el río Masacre, que desviaría parte del caudal hasta ese país y que ha denunciado el Gobierno dominicano.

Al tomar la palabra luego del canciller dominicano, Roberto Álvarez, Charles expresó que la obra no se paralizará acogiéndose al artículo 10 del Tratado de Paz, Amistad y Arbitraje, suscrito por República Dominicana y Haití en 1929 y en el que establece que los ríos y otros cursos de agua deberán ser utilizados por ambos países de forma justa y equitativa.

“La construcción del canal no va a detenerse considerando la topografía de ese río y de esa zona y en el espíritu del artículo 10 de ese tratado de 1929, el Gobierno haitiano alega su derecho de utilizar de forma justa y equitativa las obras sobre esa zona del río Masacre sobre todo que alimente esa parte que le corresponde a nuestro país”, defendió el embajador ante los presentes en la sala.

En ese sentido, manifestó que República Dominicana debe reconocer el derecho que tienen como nación, para la utilización de las aguas del río en el riego del suelo y cultivos agrícolas.

“La construcción del canal no debe detenerse, República Dominicana debe reconocer el derecho de los dos países a utilizar de forma justa y equitativa los recursos que compartimos en esa zona del río Masacre, de conformidad con el artículo 10 del tratado de 1929”, insistió.

Leon Charles instó además, al dialogo de las partes para encontrar una solución viable, sin que ambas naciones resulten mayormente afectados, ya que la construcción del canal “no se va a detener”.

“Lo que decimos es que se continúe con ese canal, la construcción del canal no se va a detener, la construcción del canal no va a parar, el gobierno de la República de Haití reclama el derecho de su territorio haciendo un examen exhaustivo de la situación actual, haciendo un llamado también a la buena resolución y al respeto de las disposiciones internacionales en la materia, igualmente hace un llamado al dialogo”

Charles realizó un llamado y voluntad de trabajar para obtener una solución que sea definitiva en la resolución del conflicto, con una conversación bilateral, que es esencial para la relación de buenos vecinos.

“El gobierno haitiano hace un llamado a la comunidad y sobre todo afirma su voluntad de trabajar para obtener una solución definitiva al diferendo citado sobre este río Masacre y sobre todo pide y recurre a que haya una discusión y conversación entre República Dominicana y Haití (…) a retomar las negociaciones y el dialogo que es un elemento esencial para las relaciones de buenos vecinos”.

El representante haitiano también fijo la posición de su delegación sobre el cierre de las fronteras del lado dominicano, desde el pasado 15 de septiembre, condenando la acción ordenada por decreto, debido a que cerrada de forma unilateral en medio del dialogo entre las delegaciones de ambos países.

“El 8 de septiembre el gobierno dominicano ordeno unilateralmente el cierre de la zona fronteriza, paralelamente la armada dominicana hizo demostración de su fuerza movilizando también barcos sobre esa zona fronteriza”, dijo.

Asimismo, condenó la desinformación que ha habido en torno al tema, sustituyendo el derecho internacional, por lo que “el gobierno haitiano expresa su gran preocupación frente a esta situación y la toma de medidas por parte de las autoridades dominicanas y condena firmemente esa decisión de cerrar ese canal”.

Entre otras cosas, Charles denunció que República Dominicana luego de la firma del tratado en 1929 ha construido de manera unilateral al menos 12 obras entorno al afluente, que no han sido consultados al gobierno haitiano, recursos que son explotados de manera “industrial”.

“Desde esa firma de 1929 Repúlica Dominicana ha construido dos represas y obras sobre el río Masacre en la región de Loma de cabrera y de Dajabón, por lo tanto son obras abiertas y cuatro mini represas, los trabajos de esas obras han sido realizados de forma unilateral, y no ha estado consultado previamente ante el Estado haitiano, por lo tanto y en función de ese territorio en cuestión, explicar que la mayoría de recursos explotados, son explotados en un área industrial”, sostuvo.

Five Haitians awarded CANARI’s Yves Renard Fellowship to strengthen sustainable livelihoods for biodiversity conservation

Port-of-Spain, October 12, 2023 – Five Haitian environmental professionals have been selected as the first Yves Renard Fellows by the Caribbean Natural Resources Institute (CANARI). This nine-month fellowship will support their work strengthening sustainable livelihoods for biodiversity conservation in Haiti.

With this first set of Fellows, CANARI has launched its landmark fellowship programme to support Caribbean nationals pursuing a career in line with CANARI’s mission of promoting and facilitating stakeholder participation and collaboration in the stewardship of renewable natural resources in the Caribbean for sustainability, resilience, equity, justice and inclusive governance. The fellowship programme is dedicated to its late co-founder Yves Renard, to continue his commitment to fostering a new generation of Caribbean conservation practitioners equipped with the skills, knowledge, tools and networks needed to address pressing challenges to Caribbean sustainable development.

Cletus Springer, Chair of CANARI’s Board of Directors, shared that, “I am immensely happy and proud that CANARI has started this initiative at this time. In many ways, it is one of the most natural and fitting things we could do to honour Yves’ imposing legacy of Impactful work. He had a deep love and an abiding interest in the region’s sustainable development; but having worked with him for many decades, in CANARI and PANOS Caribbean, I can safely say he had a very special place in his heart for Haiti and its people. CANARI has good reason to sustain this initiative.”

This first cohort of Yves Renard Fellows are supported through a grant to CANARI from the UK Government’s Darwin Initiative. The five Haitians were nominated by civil society organisations (CSOs) they work with in Haiti which are delivering on-the-ground environmental conservation alongside supporting sustainable livelihoods of communities in Haiti – Coordination Régionale des Organisations du Sud Est (CROSE), Protection de la Biodiversité Marine (FoProBiM), Haiti Survie, Groupe d’action pour le Développement Durable et Intégré d’Haiti (GADDIH) and Action pour la Sauvegarde de l'Ecologie en Haiti (ACSEH).

The fellowship involves Fellows working over September-November in Trinidad and Tobago with CANARI to gain technical knowledge and skills, including in sustainable livelihood strategies and enterprise development for poverty reduction, stewardship and nature-based approaches to biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation, as well as use of cutting-edge information and communication technology (ICT) tools. CANARI will also facilitate knowledge exchange among Haitian and Trinidad and Tobago CSOs through face-to-face and virtual meetings, field visits and ‘learning by doing’ on projects that are currently being implemented by the Institute. In addition, the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED) will provide additional capacity building in sustainable development and biodiversity conservation, drawing on its global experiences.

Upon returning to Haiti, the Fellows will work with their colleagues to apply the skills and knowledge acquired during their time at CANARI. Each nominating CSO will receive a micro-grant to implement a concrete initiative in Haiti based on the learnings shared by the Fellows on sustainable livelihoods and biodiversity conservation.

The Fellows will also produce communication products on their experiences to facilitate knowledge sharing and exchanges about sustainable livelihoods for biodiversity conservation with Haitian stakeholders and the wider French and Creole-speaking Caribbean, including Dominica, Guadeloupe, Martinique and Saint Lucia.

For media inquiries, interviews or additional information, please contact: Anna Cadiz-Hadeed, CANARI Programmes Director, at Cette adresse e-mail est protégée contre les robots spammeurs. Vous devez activer le JavaScript pour la visualiser.