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HAITI’S QUEST FOR COMPLIANCE AND RISK MANAGEMENT: A PATH TOWARDS RESILIENCE
November 2011 marked a turning point for Haiti, as the country was still grappling with the aftermath of the devastating January 12, 2010 earthquake. The disaster claimed an estimated 220,000 lives and left over 1.5 million people displaced, resulting in damages valued at US$7.8 billion.
A New Path Forward
The Haiti government and international community recognized the need for a more robust disaster risk management system to reduce vulnerability, improve emergency preparedness, and enhance response capacity. The Disaster Risk Management and Reconstruction project aimed to bring together the DRM and transport sectors to build local capacity, promote shared knowledge, and coordinate efforts.
Focus on Capacity Building
The project focused on improving disaster response capacity by:
- Generating key risk data using earth observation, remote sensing technology, and hydrological risk models
- Strengthening citizen engagement through early warnings, emergency evacuation, and shelter management
- Employing innovative engineering solutions to build a more resilient road network
Success Stories
The project’s success can be measured in its impact on the lives of over 2,800 members of Civil Protection Committees (CCPCs), who received training to evacuate at-risk populations. This training has already saved lives during subsequent disasters, including the response to the 2021 earthquake.
“We’ve seen in the last few years that these disasters are more frequent and more powerful because of climate change,” said Jerry Chandler, a surgeon and disaster medical specialist leading Haiti’s disaster risk management agency, the General Directorate of Civil Protection (DGPC). “People need to know exactly what they’re up against so they can adjust and adapt their lives.”
Wider Impact
The project’s benefits extend beyond the CCPCs:
- Over 1,000 individuals received disaster risk management training
- More than 1,000 others benefited from spatial data production, open data platforms, and technical training
Spatial Analysis and Technology
Spatial analysis, Digital Elevation Models, and hazard layers have been key in assisting decision-making, public investment, and planning for both preparedness and response. The use of new technologies has connected field studies and laboratory evaluation, helping local communities and DRM emergency committees.
A Stronger National Disaster Risk Management System
The enacted National Disaster Risk Management System is being further strengthened by ongoing IDA-financed projects in the urban, DRM, and transport sectors. The data and knowledge base developed with the project’s support is now used by government, development partners, academia, NGOs, and beneficiaries to formulate strategies, shape policies, and design programs and projects to better manage future disaster risks.
A Beacon for Other Countries
As Haiti looks towards a more resilient future, its experience serves as a beacon for other countries facing similar challenges. The country’s quest for compliance and risk management is a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in the face of adversity.