ECNETNews, New York, NY, September 5, 2024: Since fiscal year 2021, the United States has allocated nearly $813 million to Haiti in development, economic, health, and security assistance, in addition to over $430 million in humanitarian aid, totaling over $1.2 billion.
This substantial investment illustrates the U.S. commitment to promoting resilience, security, and stability in Haiti, particularly amid escalating gang violence and political turmoil in Port-au-Prince.
U.S. development aid has significantly advanced economic growth, expanded healthcare access, and enhanced citizen security. In the last decade, over 105,000 Haitian farmers have improved their crop yields using advanced techniques and seeds, generating nearly $30 million in agricultural sales and attracting $15 million in private sector investments.
Furthermore, U.S. assistance has significantly increased water security and sanitation for more than 350,000 Haitians, with over 78,000 individuals gaining access to improved sanitation services. The U.S. has also invested in constructing numerous police stations, bolstering security and fostering trust between the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the community. Initiatives to enhance community policing and promote women’s representation within the HNP are also underway through targeted recruitment efforts.
In the fight against gangs, U.S. support has strengthened the HNP’s counter-gang SWAT unit through logistics, equipment, and specialized training. Between 2022 and 2024, the U.S. has facilitated the recruitment and training of 137 new officers, providing continuous support for a dedicated 130-person unit tasked with restoring order in high-crime areas.
Judicial reforms have been prioritized, with assistance to the Superior Judiciary Council (CSPJ) resulting in the vetting of 44 judges and prosecutors to ensure ethical standards in Haiti’s legal system. Consequently, 25 judges and prosecutors have been approved, reinforcing accountability within the judiciary.
In healthcare, U.S. efforts have established a network of 170 primary care facilities serving over four million Haitians. These facilities provide essential services, including family planning, maternal and child healthcare, immunizations for diseases like cholera and COVID-19, and treatment for malnourished children. Survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) have gained access to tailored support services such as case management and psychological assistance.
In early 2024, the U.S. announced an additional $58 million in humanitarian assistance, increasing the total USAID emergency aid to Haiti to nearly $171 million since October 2022. This funding is expected to assist more than 1.5 million Haitians by providing food aid, nutrition support for infants, essential health services, and strengthened measures to address SGBV. Furthermore, the aid will support relocating displaced individuals, offering psychosocial services, and ensuring access to clean drinking water.
