Amongst the war-torn lives of the people of Haiti, it is hard to separate fact from fiction. Here are some recent updates on what's been going on in Haiti. Hopefully in the near future we will be able to access further information regarding the current government and the country's economy and stability.
-DELUGE in Haiti has caused extensive death and destruction. Haiti remains on "Yellow Alert" in which various scattered thunderstorms continue to pour down upon the nation. Substantial flooding has occurred, and it is a ongoing risk when the country only possesses 10% of forest cover. Terrential rain has caused the city of Gonaives (population 100,000) to be practically living under water. Other deeply affected areas include Les Cayes, Hinche, Port-de-Paix, Nippes, and Grand'Anse. Although both the Haitian government and the United Nations have become involved in relief efforts, Haitians have said that the relief has come very slowly. Over 700 homes have been destroyed with roughly 4,000 other severly damaged. This leaves about 4,000 families in distress and 3,000 people living in temporary shelters, or no where at all.
-Only 10% of Haiti's children are able to attend a public school and receive and education this fall. All others must find a private school to attend, but the reality is that very few can afford such costs.
-Hurricane Dean hit on August 20th. Three people were reported killed, and several others were pronounced missing. The hurricane also destroyed many houses, ruined crops and farms, and damaged highways. As a Category 4 hurricane, there was only so much one could do to prepare. A farmer named Pierre Remuza said, "I've lost everything. I can't be disappointed with God. He's the one who gives; He's the one who takes."
-On November 15th and 16th, the Organization of American States will host the first Haiti Trade and Investment forum in hopes to encourage and promote foreign investment in Haiti. Such advancements could prove to be extremely beneficial for the economy activity and stability of Haiti in the near future.
-Two Americans have been surveying Haiti in the hopes for distributing a charcoal throughout the country. This cheap, alternate fuel will hopefully help Haiti and its economy. The two are also working to introduce a more affordable and practical means of water purification for Haiti. One of the Americans said, "There's an immediate need for affordable, safe fuel. When you make less than $2 a day, every cent counts. When repiratory problems are on the rise, something has to be done. But I realize it will take some time."