The World Bank's Board of Executive Directors has approved a $50 million grant for Haiti as part of the second installment of the Haiti – Resilient Landscape Project. This project, which adopts a multisector landscape approach, aims to integrate agriculture, environment, and water management to enhance sustainable food security and create job opportunities in the nation.
Haiti continues to face major challenges in food security and nutrition, exacerbated by various factors. Many households are experiencing decreased dietary diversity due to declining incomes and rising food prices. In response, the project intends to strengthen the resilience of productive landscapes promoted through sustainable agricultural practices, conservation of natural resources, enhanced water management systems, and support for local community livelihoods. Key actions include the development of integrated policies and action plans and the implementation of a Master Plan for Resilient Productive Landscapes, led by Haiti's Agriculture and Environment Ministries.
The initiative will also fund investments and innovations throughout the value chain, from input production to processing and marketing, aiming to improve market access and create employment. It supports the long-term goal of enhancing Haiti's agricultural productivity, agri-food systems’ climate resilience, and natural resource management in selected landscapes.
“Haiti is experiencing one of the most challenging periods in recent history which has severely impacted the environment, agricultural, food security and nutrition,” stated Anne-Lucie Lefebvre, World Bank Country Manager for Haiti. “Through this grant, the World Bank supports the government's priorities to strengthen infrastructure, protect the environment, and support local communities thereby improving resilience to climate risks, food security, and creating jobs.”
The project will directly benefit small farmers and communities in the Nippes and the Region des Palmes, providing them access to improved inputs, services, and knowledge necessary for implementing climate-smart and nutrition-sensitive agriculture. It will offer support to essential actors in the agriculture value chains, encompassing service providers, input suppliers, technology providers, buyers, processors, and retailers. Recognizing that women comprise 70% of agriculture workers but face limited land ownership, the project will deliver special support to enhance women's participation and benefits.
Financed through the International Development Association (IDA), the World Bank Group's arm supporting low-income countries and small island economies, the project aims to invest in countries' futures, improving lives, and building safer, more prosperous communities globally.
For additional details, visit the World Bank's website at www.worldbank.org/caribbean or follow their social media channels.