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Ile Cayemite: Simple Lives, Big Difference

Ile Cayemite, a small island of about 20,000 inhabitants and 500 households is just around two hours away by boat from the mainland of Corail. Even before setting foot on the island, one could not help but notice the desolation in the area - lambi shells scattered on the shore; makeshift houses; children left to fend for themselves; a mid-sized boat buying all the catch of the day and paying just enough for the islanders' subsistence.


It is futile to ask whether they have access to electricity much less basic health care or fresh drinking water. One school, one mini health clinic, one cistern to collect rain water - c'est tout. A priest tries to use all his means to help these people live through each day.


In spite of this simplicity and seeming lack of basic necessities, the people have this aura of contentment about them. It's the wonder of adaptation to one's environment. As we sailed around the island, the crystal clear waters, white sand patches and isolated coves caught my attention. This place is not too bad after all.


A small act of kindness would hopefully go a long way. MINUSTAH is financing the construction of three cisterns in 3 different locations in the island to augment the rain water collection capacity of the population. The people are very much appreciative of this project so much so that they have put in all their collective efforts to help build the cisterns, which are now almost completed even if the project is barely a month old.


Walking about, it has become obvious that it would certainly be worthwhile implementing other projects to ameliorate the lives of the Cayemiteans. Two things that instantly came into mind are solar-powered public lighting and the installation of a better basketball board to replace the makeshift one they now have. Off to work then. I hope to come back in a few weeks' time with more good news for Ile Cayemite.

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