Haiti proposes a jobs program for vulnerable populations to the JICA

What the Minister Is Requesting

Both sources agree on the nature of the request. It aims to create jobs while addressing community needs, with particular attention to women, unemployed youth, and vulnerable households.

The proposed works include the rehabilitation of rural roads, maintenance of drainage and irrigation canals, reforestation, and erosion control. They would also involve minor interventions in schools and health centers, as well as neighborhood sanitation and improvement of conditions for displaced persons and host communities.

Sandra Paulemon solicited potential financial support, technical assistance to identify, design, and oversee the projects, and exploration of cofinancing with multilateral partners. She also proposed a feasibility study for a pilot program and designation of a technical liaison responsible for an initial conceptual note.

Léogâne as a Model

To defend her project, the minister cited the urban rehabilitation work carried out with Japanese cooperation in Léogâne after the 2010 earthquake. This involved roads and drainage and used local labor. She wishes that this experience guide an adapted program for current national needs.

She also recalled Japan's support for education, water supply, infrastructure, and agriculture. According to Vant Bèf Info, she presented this partnership as important for the government of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé.

JICA's Response

Hara Shohei reaffirmed that the agency remains willing to continue its collaboration with Haiti. He said that the minister's presentation helped him better understand the country's situation and potential avenues for cooperation.

Technical meetings are planned to further discussions and clarify the support that JICA could provide. The exchanges also touched on institutional capacity building, basic services, agricultural development, and risk management. According to the ministry, these areas fall under the PNSREST 2026-2030.