Port-au-Prince, Haiti – A scene of desperation unfolds in the streets of Haiti’s capital as a crowd clamors to enter a makeshift shelter in search of food. With more than 1.4 million Haitians on the brink of famine and over 4 million in need of food aid, the situation has reached a critical point.
Haiti is facing a crisis of mass hunger, with malnutrition rates in some areas comparable to those in war zones around the world, according to Jean-Martin Bauer, Haiti director for the United Nations’ World Food Program. The violence and gang activity have crippled the country, making it challenging for aid organizations to operate effectively.
Gangs have been blocking distribution routes, paralyzing the main port, and leaving many Haitians trapped in their homes. The situation has only worsened since February 29, when gangs launched attacks on key institutions, further exacerbating the country’s already dire food shortage.
The violence has forced Prime Minister Ariel Henry to announce his resignation, pending the creation of a transitional council. However, gangs demanding his ouster continue their attacks, leaving communities in fear and chaos.
Inside the makeshift shelter, the struggle for survival is evident as residents line up for food. Those like Marie Lourdes Geneus, a street vendor and mother of seven, have been forced from their homes by gangs, turning to shelters for refuge and sustenance.
The situation has left many like Erigeunes Jeffrand, a former sugar cane seller, with nothing. Forced to abandon their homes and livelihoods, they now depend on the generosity of others to survive.
With over 200 gangs operating in Haiti and controlling 80% of the capital, the humanitarian crisis continues to escalate. Aid organizations like Food for the Hungry are unable to operate effectively, leaving thousands in dire need of assistance.
Despite efforts by organizations like the World Food Program, the situation remains dire. With only a fraction of the needed funds raised, the future looks bleak for Haiti. Conflict and hunger go hand-in-hand in a country on the brink of collapse, with millions struggling to survive each day.