Haiti’s Struggles: Food Insecurity and Ongoing Violence
Haiti is facing severe challenges, mainly due to the recent impact of Hurricane Melissa and rising violence. Areas around Port-au-Prince, including Cité Soleil and Croix-des-Bouquets, are stuck in a state of emergency. Many people here rely on survival tactics like reducing meals, selling belongings, or even begging to get by.
Recent estimates suggest that between 3 to 3.5 million people in Haiti will need food assistance from November 2025 to May 2026. Unfortunately, many are stuck in a cycle of poverty, with little hope for improvement anytime soon.
Rising Violence and Displacement
Insecurity is worsening daily. Armed groups are making it hard for people to move freely and access essential services. In fact, more than 1.4 million people are internally displaced due to the violence, with 210,000 in the Port-au-Prince area alone. Reports from the United Nations highlight over 1,200 deaths linked to gang violence in just one quarter of 2025.
The Impact of Hurricane Melissa
Hurricane Melissa hit at the end of October, dumping over 250 mm of rain. This disaster has disrupted food security in many regions, affecting around 1.25 million people in southern and southeastern departments. Many homes were damaged or flooded, and crops were destroyed. The result? A dramatic drop in food availability and agricultural income for families.
High Food Prices Weighing Down Households
Food prices have skyrocketed, making it even harder for families to buy what they need. In hurricane-hit areas, prices are especially high. For example, the price of yellow maize jumped 31% in just one month. These price increases limit access to food for poor households, further exacerbating the crisis.
Emergency Aid Falling Short
Efforts to provide emergency food aid have been insufficient. The World Food Programme identified 360,000 people needing immediate help after Hurricane Melissa, but only a small fraction—around 12,700—have received assistance. The Humanitarian Response Plan for Haiti, estimated at $908 million, is currently just 21% funded, adding to the struggle.
Conclusion
Haiti’s situation is dire. As communities grapple with both food insecurity and escalating violence, urgent action is essential. Addressing these intertwined crises will require significant support, not just locally, but from the international community as well. Understanding the complexities of these issues is vital for anyone interested in international development and humanitarian efforts.
For further insights, refer to sources such as the World Food Programme here.
