HAITI’S PRIVATE SECTOR TAKES LEAD IN FINANCIAL INSTITUTION RISK MANAGEMENT
Introduction
In a bid to strengthen Haiti’s disaster risk management and business continuity, the Haitian private sector has formed the Alliance for Risk Management and Business Continuity (AGERCA). This independent non-governmental organization brings together 29 members of the private sector to support the national system for risk and disaster management.
What is AGERCA?
AGERCA provides a platform for businesses of all sizes to quickly recover from crises and build forward better. The organization helps its members identify risks, avoid disruptions to operations, and promote good practices in disaster risk management. AGERCA also coordinates response actions by the private sector and civil society in the event of a crisis or natural hazard.
Key Initiatives
- Helps its members identify risks and promote good practices in disaster risk management
- Coordinates response actions by the private sector and civil society in the event of a crisis or natural hazard
- Provides a platform for businesses to quickly recover from crises and build forward better
Collaboration with Government Agencies
As the representative of civil society and the private sector within the Haitian National System for Risk and Disaster Management, AGERCA works closely with the General Directorate for Civil Protection and is a member of the national emergency operations center.
Impact and Achievements
Over the years, AGERCA has made significant contributions to disaster risk management in Haiti. The organization has:
- Coordinated private sector and civil society contributions
- Assisted in distributing relief aid
- Developed community-level projects to build resilience
- Raised awareness on disaster risk management and business continuity
- Disseminated information on disaster risk reduction
- Conducted disaster simulation exercises
Response to the 2021 Earthquake
Following the 7.2-magnitude earthquake that struck southern Haiti in August 2021, AGERCA played a crucial role in coordinating the response of the private sector, civil society, and the Haitian diaspora. In collaboration with the Haitian government, AGERCA provided phone credits to support information management and coordination, while member companies made financial contributions and donated critical items such as potable water, clothes, and solar-powered refrigerators.
Promoting Local Procurement
AGERCA’s efforts have been instrumental in promoting local procurement in international disaster responses and raising awareness about the role of the private sector in Haiti’s disaster risk management. The organization has also conducted an awareness campaign on the importance of building resilience and continuity planning for businesses.
Learn More
To learn more about AGERCA, please visit their website at www.ageca.org.