Weekly Report April 11 to April 18

Viv Ansanm Gangs Intensify Attacks on Kenscoff, Local Security Forces Struggle to Respond

On April 12, 2025, the Viv Ansanm criminal coalition once again launched an attack on Kenscoff, with the local police officers, supported by reinforcements, responding to the assault. Unfortunately, some officers were injured and had to be hospitalized for treatment. Since the end of February, the gangs have intensified their offensives, gaining control of three out of the commune’s five rural sections, including Bongars, Sourcailles, and Nouvelle-Touraine. Only the town center and the sections of Belle-Fontaine and Grand-Fonds remain free from gang control. In videos circulating on social media, the criminal groups proudly displayed weapons and equipment bearing the insignia of the Haitian National Police (PNH), which they had seized during the attacks. Mayor Massillon Jean criticized the lack of large-scale police operations in Kenscoff, expressing frustration with the Haitian authorities’ slow response to the escalating violence despite multiple requests for reinforcements.

The UN Integrated Office in Haiti (BINUH) and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) have echoed similar criticisms of the PNH’s delayed response, stating that security forces did not take adequate preventive measures nor quickly deploy specialized units despite clear threats. The commune of Kenscoff has already suffered greatly in this crisis, with 262 people reported dead. Mayor Jean warned that the gangs are preparing a large-scale offensive to seize the town center, destroy the police station and town hall, which would have far-reaching consequences for neighboring communes like Pétion-Ville. While the gangs have attempted to attack the localities of Depans and Nan Koupi, which provide access to Thomassin 48, the population and security forces have managed to resist for now, but the situation remains tense and precarious.

Mirebalais Falls Under Gang Control Amid Escalating Violence

On April 15, 2025, Mirebalais descended into chaos as armed gangs affiliated with the Viv Ansanm criminal coalition took control of the city. For several days, the gangs have been terrorizing the population, looting businesses, and destroying state symbols. On Tuesday afternoon, they set fire to the city’s police station after releasing prisoners from the jail. Outnumbered and strategically disadvantaged, the police abandoned their positions and retreated over two kilometers from the city center. According to journalist Zacharie Exil, director of Radio Zaho FM, the gangs now control about 80% of Mirebalais. They continue to pillage local businesses and transport the stolen goods to Port-au-Prince, where they are distributed in criminal-controlled neighborhoods. The gangs also emptied the public market, stealing goods stored in commercial warehouses, further highlighting the widespread looting and destruction of public infrastructure.

The Haitian National Police (PNH) had announced on April 9 the dispatch of reinforcements, including specialized units and combat equipment, to the region. However, these efforts have had minimal impact on the ground. Exil reports that only a few peripheral areas still have a police presence, while the city center remains under gang control. In response to the intensifying violence, a new contingent of about 20 Jamaican officers arrived in Haiti on Tuesday to support the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM). Despite the international presence, gangs continue to expand their control over areas like Solino, Nazon, Mirebalais, Pacot, Turgeau, and Kenscoff. This situation raises concerns about the effectiveness of the current security strategy deployed by international partners.

Kenscoff Faces Growing Threat from Gangs Amid Lack of Police Action

Kenskoff is increasingly becoming a neglected front in Haiti's battle against gang violence. Since late January 2025, the commune has faced repeated attacks from armed gangs, yet it has gone without a police operation for over 15 days, according to Massillon Jean, the interim executive officer of the commune. He revealed this on April 15, 2025, during a segment on Magik9’s morning show. The last significant operation, which involved the Haitian National Police (PNH) assisting Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) armored vehicles caught in an ambush near Belot, was more than two weeks ago. Although police officers are still stationed in Kenscoff, Jean emphasized that their presence is not enough without proper action and equipment. He called for more decisive measures to prevent further gang expansion and secure the commune, especially with the mounting threats to Kenscoff's town center.

Massillon Jean also shared details about the involvement of the Haitian Armed Forces (FAD’H) in the area. After the initial attacks in January, soldiers were deployed to the Teleco site but were not actively engaged in operations and eventually left the site. On April 14, 2025, some FAD’H personnel returned, but Massillon Jean noted that the cooperation between the FAD’H and PNH remains limited, with the two forces not sharing operational spaces. Recent gang offensives have intensified, with attacks on localities like Godet, Boukan, and Madeleine, resulting in gunfire exchanged with police officers, the seizure of weapons and ammunition, and several kidnappings. The growing gang presence in these areas has caused widespread panic, and neighboring communities such as Thomassin and Fermathe have seen residents fleeing their homes in fear.

SPNH-17 Condemns Destruction of Police Stations in Mirebalais and Saut-d'Eau

The destruction of the police stations in Mirebalais and Saut-d'Eau has been strongly condemned by the Syndicat de la Police Nationale d'Haïti (SPNH-17), which sees it as further evidence of the deteriorating security situation in the country. These attacks occurred without any significant resistance, under the watch of powerless authorities. SPNH-17 criticized the government and the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) for their failure to take meaningful action to strengthen the Haitian National Police (PNH), which is overwhelmed by the increasing violence. The union rejected the government's budgetary justifications, insisting that the real issue is a lack of political will. It called for public mobilization and a firm response from conscientious police officers, as well as direct involvement from the Haitian Armed Forces (FAd'H) to combat the expansion of armed groups, particularly in the Centre Department. The SPNH-17 emphasized that authorities were unable to ensure security should not hold positions of power and reaffirmed their support for national security forces, declaring, "Long live the Police and the Army!"

PNH Denies Rumors Amid Growing Security Crisis

On April 16, 2025,   the Haitian   National Police   (PNH) issued a   statement to deny   several rumors   circulating on   social media,   including claims of a firearms ban and the summoning of candidates for the 35th promotion. The PNH emphasized that only its Press and Public Relations Coordination (CPRP), through its official platforms (Facebook, X, YouTube, TikTok, Instagram), is authorized to communicate on its decisions and activities. However, despite these clarifications, the reality on the ground tells a different story. In recent weeks, armed gangs have intensified their control over large areas of the country, destroying police stations, freeing prisoners, and escalating acts of violence. While the PNH reaffirms its commitment to "protect and serve," the public is calling for concrete actions, including territorial recovery, a visible strategy, and tangible protection. The leadership of interim Director General Rameau Normil is under increasing pressure, as citizens demand real results amid the ongoing security crisis.

Canapé-Vert Protest Cancelled Amid Allegations of Infiltration and Violence

On April 16, 2025, a planned citizen protest in Canapé-Vert was abruptly cancelled as thousands prepared to march against the escalating insecurity. Samuel, the head of the Canapé-Vert Vigilance Brigade, accused corrupt politicians and members of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) of orchestrating a plan to massacre the protesters. He claimed that over 300 armed individuals had been mobilized to infiltrate the demonstration and attack the participants. Samuel openly criticized the involvement of some political figures with gangs and warned against any attempts to provoke violence or infiltrate peaceful gatherings.

In addition to the cancelled protest, Samuel condemned the violent dispersal of other demonstrations in Pétion-Ville, where police used tear gas against peaceful protesters. He called on the Haitian state to take responsibility, emphasizing that the people should not be subjected to repression while demanding security. The cancellation of the protest coincided with a joint statement from France and the United Kingdom, which expressed concerns about the coordination of criminal gangs and their role in further destabilizing the Haitian Transitional Presidential Council.

International Concern Over Rising Gang Coordination and Stability Efforts in Haiti

On April 16, 2025, the United Kingdom and France expressed deep concern over reports of increasing coordination among criminal groups aiming to destabilize Haiti's Transitional Presidential Council (CPT). In a joint statement, both nations reiterated their support for CARICOM, the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), and the Haitian National Police (PNH) in their ongoing struggle against armed gangs. They emphasized their commitment to maintaining pressure on those attempting to destabilize Haiti through sanctions and urged the authorities to fully enforce the existing regime. This stance was echoed by the United States, which reaffirmed its support for the CARICOM and Kenyan-led efforts to restore stability in Haiti. These statements coincide with growing public protests, particularly in Canapé-Vert, where the "Bwa kale" movement, symbolizing popular justice and armed resistance against gangs, is gaining momentum. The movement calls for full mobilization, criticizing the CPT and the state for failing to protect the population. The rhetoric from movement leaders is becoming more radical, even suggesting the occupation of the Villa d’Accueil, the government's temporary headquarters. Additionally, Jimmy Cherizier, known as Barbecue, announced his coalition of gangs' intention to form a political party, further complicating the current security and political landscape.

Neighborhood Barricades in Haiti: A Community Defense Strategy Against Insecurity and International Failure

In response to escalating gang violence and the inefficiency of law enforcement, many communities in Haiti have resorted to constructing barricades to protect themselves. These makeshift structures, often built with scavenged materials, reflect the resilience of the inhabitants and their determination to defend their territories. Initially seen during the insurrection against Jean-Claude Duvalier’s regime, the widespread use of barricades became more prominent after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. Areas like Bel Air, Solino, and Cité Soleil were particularly affected, with residents setting up barricades to fend off gang attacks.

The primary functions of these barricades are varied. They control access to neighborhoods, limit the entry of unauthorized vehicles, and serve as physical barriers against armed intrusions. Additionally, they symbolize resistance, reflecting the refusal to submit to gang control. Materials used in the construction of these barricades range from burning tires to discarded vehicles, and they are often manned by local groups, sometimes referred to as "Bwa Kale," who provide surveillance and security.

While these barricades offer a sense of protection, they also come with significant negative consequences. They isolate neighborhoods, making it difficult for residents to access essential services like healthcare and markets. This disruption to daily life also harms local economies, as businesses are forced to close and trade is paralyzed. Furthermore, the barricades exacerbate the deterioration of living conditions, as access to water, electricity, and other basic services is often limited. Despite providing some security, these barricades can also become targets for gangs seeking to eliminate any opposition.

In response to the crisis, the Haitian government has allocated a "war budget" to strengthen security forces and combat gang violence, though the effectiveness of these measures remains insufficient. However, the international community, including the United Nations and foreign governments, must also bear responsibility for this ongoing crisis. For years, international organizations have failed to provide meaningful support to restore peace and stability. Their responses have been slow and fragmented, while their resources have often been misallocated or ineffectively deployed. This failure has left the Haitian people to fend for themselves, relying on makeshift solutions like barricades, which are ultimately a symbol of the international community's failure to address the root causes of the violence and insecurity in Haiti.

These neighborhood barricades, while representing a form of popular resistance, highlight both the state's failure to address the security crisis adequately and the international community's inability to provide effective and timely assistance. The Haitian people’s determination to protect their dignity and autonomy in the face of adversity should not be seen as a solution but as a stark reminder of the urgent need for coordinated efforts between national and international authorities to restore order, rebuild trust, and ensure the safety and well-being of the citizens of Haiti.

Jamaica Defence Force Rotates Personnel in Haiti Amid Growing Security Concerns

On April 16, 2025, the Jamaica Defence Force (JDF) announced the return of its scout team, initially deployed to Haiti in September 2024 as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM). Led by Colonel Kevron Henry, the team played a crucial role in establishing the mission’s headquarters, coordinating logistical support, ensuring security, and providing training and maintenance for armored vehicles. A legal officer was also involved in creating a regulatory framework for the MSSM. A new contingent, consisting of 21 members, 18 JDF soldiers and 3 officers from the Jamaica Constabulary Force, arrived in Port-au-Prince on April 15 to replace the initial team. Despite the presence of international forces since June 2024, the security situation in Haiti has not significantly improved, with many areas like Pacot, Turgeau, Delmas, and Mirebalais now under gang control. Growing criticism from the Haitian public questions the MSSM's effectiveness and its coordination with the Haitian National Police (PNH). A viral video showing the desecration of the body of a missing Haitian police officer, after recent attacks in Kenscoff, has further fueled a sense of abandonment and failure to restore order, undermining the mission's credibility.

April 16th Demonstration in Port-au-Prince Canceled Amid Tensions and Growing Public Outcry

On April 16, 2025, Port-au-Prince and surrounding cities were poised for a major protest organized by the Canapé Vert popular movement to denounce the rising insecurity and the government’s failure to address armed violence. However, the leader of the Canapé Vert self-defense brigade, Samuel, called off the protest to prevent a massacre, revealing that nearly 300 individuals had been mobilized by corrupt politicians to attack the protesters. Despite the cancellation, the city remained tense, with roads barricaded and vehicles attacked in areas like Delmas. Small businesses, schools, and banks closed, while a visible security presence, including police officers and soldiers, attempted to clear the streets. Protests still took place in Pétion-Ville, though, with some demonstrators marching from the Route de Frères. The government, through the CPT, issued a statement promising to restore public order and ensure the safety of citizens. The demonstration, though cut short, reflected deep public frustration with the government's inability to combat gang violence, symbolized by the theme “If Haiti has already been sold, the de facto regime is advised to return the money,” and echoed the sentiment of growing dissatisfaction with the state's collapse, particularly after events in Mirebalais and Carrefour-Feuilles.

Haiti's Struggle: The CPT's Failure and the Looming Threat of Collapse

Over the past 12 months, the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) has faltered in its mission to stabilize Haiti, failing to rise to the historical demands placed upon it. Despite its creation to restore order, the CPT has struggled with internal divisions, scandals, and a growing credibility deficit. The objectives of restoring security, drafting a new constitution, and organizing credible elections are increasingly out of reach, with the current security situation deteriorating. Gangs continue to tighten their grip on cities and neighborhoods, and the CPT’s inability to address the crisis has led to the suffering of thousands of Haitians. The streets are littered with the aftermath of gang violence, and the populace lives in fear of the next attack, unable to rely on the state for protection. The CPT's failure to act as a unifying force has left the country vulnerable, with the worst elements of society exploiting the chaos for political gain.

The situation in Haiti continues to worsen, with the potential for further disintegration into a narco-state or a terrorist state. The U.S. and CARICOM, both "godfathers" of the CPT, have acknowledged the need for action to prevent the country from descending further into lawlessness, but this recognition must be followed by concrete steps. The collapse of the state, both territorially and symbolically, could lead to Haiti becoming a source of instability for the entire region, with the potential for cartels to take control and further destabilize the Caribbean and beyond. The time for action is now, as the failure of the CPT and the growing violence will have consequences that reach far beyond Haiti’s borders. The U.S. and CARICOM must provide more than just acknowledgment, they must take decisive steps to help the Haitian population and prevent further regional threats.

Cruise Ships Cancel Labadee Visits Amid Ongoing Security Concerns in Haiti

At least two cruise ships have informed passengers that they will be canceling their scheduled visits to Labadee, a private beach resort in northern Haiti operated by Royal Caribbean. Passengers aboard the Voyager of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas were informed by the ship's captain and through letters that, due to security concerns, instead of visiting Labadee on Thursday, they would spend the day in Nassau, Bahamas. Despite the cancellation of port calls, employees at the resort will retain their jobs. Labadee, located in a remote area far from the unrest in the capital, has been temporarily closed before, including in March 2024 due to escalating violence following the fall of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. The resort, guarded by a private security force, is a popular destination that generates significant revenue and employment.

Kenyan-Led Multinational Mission's Shift in Strategy Amid Growing Gang Control in Haiti

Since the March 25 attack in Artibonite, where three armored vehicles of the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MMAS) were destroyed, and a Kenyan officer was killed, updates on the mission’s activities have been scarce. As criminal groups continue to expand their control over cities like Mirebalais, Saut-d'Eau, and Kenscoff, the Kenyan presence has been insufficient to push back the gangs. The once-visible armored vehicles, such as the MRAP Promax, which were frequently seen in neighborhoods like Solino, Nazon, and Port-au-Prince, have disappeared from the streets, raising concerns about the mission’s effectiveness.

In response to inquiries, the mission’s spokesperson, Commissioner Jack Ombaka, explained that the Kenyan-led force has shifted to a new strategy focused on "decisive operations" with less public communication. Ombaka assured that the multinational force has been conducting targeted operations over the past week, which has led to gang leaders becoming less visible. The mission is specifically focused on capturing at least three prominent gang leaders, dead or alive, and has reported significant losses inflicted on the gangs, although the exact figures remain undisclosed. However, the PNH did not respond to questions regarding joint operations between Haitian officers and the MMAS.

Haiti's Controversial Integration of BSAP into National Security Forces Raises Concerns

Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council (CPT) recently issued a decree to integrate the Security of Protected Areas Brigade (BSAP) into the national security forces to assist in combating the country's growing gang violence. Despite this, there is a significant lack of clarity about how this integration will be implemented, raising concerns about the brigade’s credibility and legal standing. Founded in 2018 by former Environment Minister Pierre Simon Georges, BSAP was originally established to protect the environment but has since evolved into a controversial force, accused of criminal activity and political ties to gangs. The lack of oversight, training, and consistent leadership within the brigade has raised alarms, with critics arguing that its involvement in national security could further complicate efforts to address Haiti's violence.

The integration of BSAP into the national security forces follows the rising tide of gang violence in Haiti, particularly in regions like the capital and Artibonite. The brigade has been seen as a potential asset due to its knowledge of protected areas, which could assist in tracking and combating gangs hiding in these regions. However, human rights groups and political leaders have expressed concern over the brigade's questionable history, including allegations of abuse, extortion, and ties to criminal figures. While some leaders, including BSAP’s regional directors, have expressed support for the move, the decision has been met with calls for rigorous vetting to prevent infiltration by criminals or political actors.

As the BSAP prepares to play a larger role in national security, there is no clear plan in place regarding its funding, training, or integration with the Haiti National Police (PNH) and the Armed Forces of Haiti (FAD'H). Without a formal strategy or a memorandum of understanding between BSAP and PNH, questions remain about the brigade’s operational structure and whether it will be incorporated into the existing law enforcement framework or operate independently. The lack of details has prompted concerns about the potential for further instability, with critics calling for more transparency and accountability in the process to ensure that the integration of BSAP does not exacerbate the country’s ongoing security crisis.

Rameau Normil’s Leadership Amid Challenges: A Call for Support and Reform in the Haitian National Police

Rameau Normil, who returned to lead the Haitian National Police (PNH) in June 2024, was entrusted with the difficult task of restoring order in a country beset by escalating gang violence. While he faced immense challenges, including the brutal attacks on police stations and the loss of territory, Normil’s leadership has seen significant victories, particularly in Lower Artibonite, and he has consistently shown determination and resilience. His efforts to rebuild and reinforce the police force, despite limited resources and overwhelming obstacles, have been commendable. However, Normil has been faced with harsh defeats, such as the devastating attacks on Kenscoff and Mirebalais, where gangs overran the towns, capturing weapons, and killing officers. Despite these setbacks, Normil remains steadfast in his commitment to fight back against criminal forces. Under his guidance, the PNH has suffered heavy losses, but the continued support from his leadership is essential for the recovery and revitalization of Haiti's security apparatus.

As the situation in Haiti continues to deteriorate, questions remain about the PNH’s ability to effectively combat gangs given its limited resources, insufficient manpower, and organizational dysfunction. According to recent reports, there are over 12,000 police officers, but many remain inactive or underprepared. Additionally, many police facilities are either non-operational or inadequately equipped, and the police force's fleet is in dire need of maintenance. While Normil has received some support, there is an urgent need for a clearer performance contract that holds officers accountable and ensures that the PNH can fulfill its duty to protect citizens. His leadership, however, must be backed by consistent support and reform, addressing the police's organizational issues and ensuring its sustainability. This is a critical moment in Haitian policing, and Normil's continued leadership will be vital to navigating the country through this period of instability and insecurity.

Threats to Haiti's Power Supply as Gangs Target Péligre Dam

The Péligre Dam, Haiti's most crucial electricity production center, faces increasing threats due to the presence of armed gangs in the Mirebalais area. Pierre Michel Felix, president of the Federation of EDH Workers' Unions (FESTREDH), raised alarm over the lack of security measures to protect the dam despite the deployment of police in the commune. Employees at the dam are working under severe anxiety as gang violence disrupts their lives, with some unable to return to their homes and others experiencing looting. The plant's ability to operate at full capacity of 54 megawatts is hindered by technical issues, including a broken turbine and low water levels in the supply lake. Felix warned that if the dam is forced to shut down, Port-au-Prince could face a total blackout, as the E-Power plant alone cannot meet the city's energy demands. He also highlighted the damage to other key infrastructure, including substations and the evacuation of the Mirebalais University Hospital, which has been forced to flee from the escalating violence. Felix urged the government to take urgent action to secure the area and prevent a complete collapse of the power supply.

The Terror of Criminal Groups in Haiti as Seen on Social Media

The terror unleashed by criminal groups in Haiti, particularly around Port-au-Prince, has reached new levels of horror, captured in videos widely shared on social media. These groups are ravaging communities, looting, burning, and murdering with impunity. In the city of Mirebalais, disturbing videos show gang members parading severed human heads and body parts, even using them as footballs. Such footage, often filmed by the criminals themselves, highlights the grotesque brutality that has become the norm. These groups, such as the Taliban gang and 400 Mawozo, have asserted their dominance, executed violent raids and publicly demonstrating their control over large areas. Their actions are not only terrorizing the population but also demonstrating the government's helplessness in restoring order. Videos from the regions of Kenscoff, Delmas, and Mirebalais show desolate streets, burned homes, and widespread looting, with civilians fleeing for their lives. The horrific reality of this criminal siege is documented daily on social media, where the perpetrators proudly showcase their lawlessness, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair that has gripped the nation for years.

Cholera Resurgence in Port-au-Prince: Displaced Camps Affected in Bourdon Area

There has been a resurgence of cholera cases in several displaced persons camps in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, with at least 8 confirmed cases reported in three camps located along the Bourdon Road. Cholera cases have also been identified in other makeshift camps where people live in overcrowded and unsanitary conditions. The recent rains in the region have worsened the situation, causing damage to local infrastructure and further exacerbating the spread of cholera. Citizens are calling on authorities to take immediate action to address the outbreak and prevent a larger crisis. Additionally, residents are demanding the restoration of security so they can safely return to their neighborhoods, which they abandoned due to gang violence. The cholera situation has also worsened in Cité Soleil, where flooding from the recent downpours has affected several neighborhoods.

Displaced Haitians Endure Harsh Conditions in MTPTC Camp Amid Ongoing Rainstorms

At the Ministry of Public Works, Transport, and Communications (MTPTC) camp in Port-au-Prince, the heavy toll of continuous rainfall on displaced people is painfully evident. Forced from their homes due to escalating gang violence, over 4,000 internally displaced persons (IDPs) have spent several nights struggling to keep floodwaters from overtaking their makeshift shelters. Despite their efforts to raise barriers with gravel, sand, and concrete blocks, the water continues to seep into their shelters, forcing them to stand or move children to safer spots. With no effective drainage system, the rainy season only worsens their already dire situation, subjecting them to constant exposure to the elements. The camp, now home to families who have lost everything, is not only vulnerable to flooding but also faces increased risks of disease outbreaks due to unsanitary conditions.

The severe weather, attributed to an elongated area of low pressure over Haiti, continues to exacerbate the plight of these displaced families. With flash floods and landslides expected to persist across multiple regions, the overcrowded MTPTC camp remains a health and safety hazard. Many of the displaced people, who fled gang-occupied neighborhoods such as Solino, Delmas 30, and Clercine, are now calling on the government to assist them with basic necessities, including food, medical care, and proper shelter. As they endure endless rains, their hope to return home is palpable. "Even a dog lives better than we do," said Phora Mondésir, the camp coordinator, urging authorities to act swiftly before the situation worsens.

Heavy Rainfall Causes Severe Flooding in Northern and Nippes Haiti

Heavy rainfall lasting nearly 36 hours has caused widespread flooding in Haiti’s Northern, Northeastern, and Nippes Departments, leaving at least 2,578 homes flooded and three completely destroyed. Over 2,500 families were forced to evacuate their homes across approximately 20 communes, including Cap-Haitien, Ouanaminthe, Fort-Liberté, Trou-du-Nord, Anse-à-Veau, and Baradères. The rainfall, which began on January 29, was triggered by a cold front originating from North America. According to Marcelin Esterlin, coordinator of the Hydrometeorological Unit of Haiti (UHM), the cold front was unpredictable, with meteorologists unable to forecast its intensity. Despite the difficulty in predicting such weather events, further rainfall is expected, particularly in the northern regions, due to the residues left behind.

In Cap-Haitien, areas like Haut-du-Cap and Quartier-Morin saw residents seeking refuge in the homes of neighbors and family members. Civil Protection agents, alongside Deputy Mayor Patrick Almonor, assisted with evacuations. In the northeast, Caracol's electrical center flooded, and Ferrier’s main road was damaged after a bridge collapsed. Meanwhile, in the Nippes Department, residents gathered at a "secured building" for safety. Government officials have yet to make a public statement regarding their recovery plans.

USNS Comfort Mission Excludes Haiti Amid Growing Crisis

The U.S. Department of Defense announced the deployment of the USNS Comfort hospital ship for the Continuing Promise 2025 mission, which will visit Panama, Colombia, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Grenada, and Ecuador. However, Haiti was notably excluded, despite the country's ongoing humanitarian crisis and widespread destruction of healthcare facilities by armed gangs. The USNS Comfort is known for providing free medical assistance to vulnerable populations across the region. The omission of Haiti has raised concerns amidst the country’s severe health and security challenges.

Haiti's Apparel Sector Threatened by Trump's Tariff and Expiring Trade Benefits

Haiti's already fragile apparel industry is facing a new threat following President Trump's announcement of a 10% tariff on all Caribbean imports, which could devastate the sector, one of the few remaining functional parts of the nation's economy. For nearly two decades, Haiti's garment manufacturers have benefitted from the HOPE (Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement) and HELP (Haiti Economic Lift Program) trade programs, which provide duty-free access to U.S. markets. However, the new tariffs could undermine these benefits. Haiti heavily depends on exports of apparel, particularly knit T-shirts and sweaters, to the U.S., with the sector generating $844 million in 2023 alone. While the programs are set to expire in September 2025, U.S. lawmakers have introduced a bipartisan bill to extend them. Supporters argue that renewing HOPE and HELP is crucial not only for Haiti's economy but also for American manufacturers and cotton producers who benefit from nearshoring. Without an extension, experts warn that Haiti could lose one of the last remaining pillars of its formal economy, further exacerbating the country's political and economic instability.