Caribbean News
Japanese Strategic Development Plan for Haiti re-activated, four focuses to improve social services
#Port-au-Prince – Haiti, March 20, 2018 – In a four pronged effort, Japan is poised to help Haiti through a development plan that will span four years and tackle four major areas to pull Haiti out of the mire of social ills.
Now the Strategic Development Plan for Haiti is announced as signed and activated between the Haitian and Japanese Governments with four main focuses, namely: improvement of sanitary and hygienic conditions; promotion of education; strengthening food security and agriculture and developing an economic base strengthening environmental conservation and disaster risk management.
The agreement to assist Haiti to become one of the world’s dominant economies by 2030 had an original commitment in 2012, and HaitiLibre on Monday shared that the plan is re-booted but still focused on establishing a strong social base by offering better social services.
#Japan is particularly concerned with healthcare equality for Haitians at home. 
“Given the situation in the country where basic medical care does not benefit the entire population, resulting in the highest juvenile, child and maternal mortality rate the highest among Latin American and Caribbean countries, Japan is committed to improving health services through the development of health and medical infrastructure, building personal capacity and improving management of medical facilities. In the field of sanitation, Japan is also committed to providing safe drinking water, raising awareness of a better hygienic environment and infrastructure development while supporting epidemic control activities including cholera since 2010.”
The World Health Organization reports that 46% of Haitians did not have access to medical care; a statistic which was determine prior to the catastrophic earthquake of 2010.
Add to this concerning statistic is information which emerged in the #BorgenReport of August 2017 which explained that over 52 children of every 1000 die either in child birth or within a year of being born in Haiti. And that 75 per cent of Haitian mothers are actually having their babies at home because they do not have access to medical facilities in their home country. 
“With 55 percent of Haitians living in rural areas, most mothers do not have access to proper medical facilities, emergency transportation, or skilled midwives. This leaves the majority of mothers in Haiti without the proper support through labor.”
The Strategic Development Plan for Haiti is now available online.
KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):
Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.
“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.
She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.
Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.
“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.
“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.
Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.
The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.
Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.
In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.
CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS
-
Crime2 days agoUnlocking Perspectives: Serious Tourist Incidents unveiled in TCI
-
Latin America and Caribbean1 week agoRegional SDGs Update
-
TCI News2 days agoRegional SDGs Update; 22% to be reached by 2030
-
Bahamas News1 week agoEnvironment State-Minister updates ‘Our Ocean’ forum on The Bahamas as SIDS leader in sustainable tourism
-
Bahamas News1 week agoPacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme
-
Bahamas News1 week agoNassau Cruise Port Donates Nearly $2 Million Towards Food Security
-
Bahamas News2 days agoCIBC Caribbean announces the closure of Bay Street Branch
-
Health1 week agoIncreased cases of Chicken Pox Prompts Ministry of Health and Human Services Response