As we usher out 2023 and look onward to 2024, we hope that the troubles in Haiti, with what effectively is ‘domestic terrorism’, will come under control with the arrival of the various international peace-keeping groups.
The true identity of Haiti has over the years, been submerged in the intensive reporting of the litany of disasters befalling the nation. Hurricanes, earthquakes and the recent violence have been banner headlines worldwide. What is constantly ignored in favour of sensational events is the vibrant, warm and resilient nature of the Haitian people.
Cities worldwide have their own intrinsic problems, from street gangs and poverty to over-crowding and unemployment. Move outside the central environs of Port au Prince, into the countryside and you will see the true nature of the Haitian people.
Haiti is a challenging country and in many rural areas, the collection of water is a day on day and time consuming exercise. Water is life and without it we don’t survive. We are so used to just turning on a faucet and miraculously getting drinking water that we don’t really comprehend the challenges and consequent impact on families in Haiti who don’t have that luxury. Most water supplies are hillside springs, often an hour’s trek each way to collect water for cooking, washing and other necessities. More often than not, it’s the children who have that responsibility. Sometimes meaning that water takes priority over school.
Hanwash is working with local and national authorities to rectify this, one commune at a time, one well at a time. Our ambitious goal is to provide potable water to the entire nation – a goal which will take several years to achieve. The impact of easily available, clean water wells, will improve not only the ease of accessibility, but will also mean better education via more time in school for the children; better health and hygiene – the spring water is often contaminated; the opportunity to improve Haitians’ economic situation as time spent on the search for water comes to an end.
Happy New Year! Bon Ane Nouvo!
Follow us for regular updates on our progress and for a closer look at those communities and families impacted by the Haiti National Sanitation and Hygiene Initiative.
