Post Conflict Projects

The MINUSTAH Quick Impact Projects (QIPs) programme has been approved for a sixth year with a budget of USD 3 million to reinforce MINUSTAH’s renewed drive to win the hearts and minds of the Haitian population. The deterioration of living conditions, due to a rise in food and energy costs on the world markets, has been further exacerbated by the 2008 hurricanes which wiped out an estimated three to four years of economic growth. QIPs, even though limited in scope to lastingly change the challenging situation in the country, would help to significantly improve the environment for effective mandate implementation and help ameliorate security conditions for MINUSTAH personnel. Owing to their popularity and high visibility, QIPs can make a difference in boosting and maintaining public confidence in the Mission, its activities and the democratic process. Three major areas of support have been sought by the Government – the rehabilitation of infrastructure, the resumption of the school y...

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...

In Haiti, as it is in most parts of the world, water is more and more becoming a scarce resource in spite of the fact that the world is virtually covered with water. The world's supply of fresh water is running out. Already one person in five has no access to safe drinking water according to a BBC special report . Many organisations and even individuals are trying to put in their share to resolve this problem. Here's an example of how it is being done in a remote area in Haiti called Paillant. To read the article in English. Lissez l'article en français.