In Haiti’s humanitarian landscape, marked by persistent challenges linked to access to drinking water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), a new chapter of hope has been inaugurated with the launch of the “Global WASH” project by the Arbeiter-Samariter-Bund (ASB). Funded by the German Federal Foreign Office (GFFO), this three-year project, which will also be implemented in 13 other countries, aims to bring sustainable WASH solutions to Haiti’s most vulnerable communities.

In two inaugural events, ASB-Haiti officially launched the Global WASH project on December 9 and 11, 2023, in the communes of Saint Jean du Sud and Corail respectively. Both events brought together a large audience of distinguished guests, representatives of local authorities, the NGO’s partners and committed members of the community, testifying to the importance and scope of this humanitarian initiative.

The mission of the Global WASH project in Haiti is to address several crucial WASH challenges facing the Haitian population, particularly in the communes of Saint Jean du Sud and Corail. The main objective of the project is to equip vulnerable communities with inclusive WASH capacities, taking into account the impacts of climate and environmental risks, and enabling them to prepare, anticipate and provide proactive humanitarian emergency assistance in response to extreme weather events.

To achieve this, the project will implement a series of targeted activities aimed at strengthening WASH infrastructure, raising community awareness of hygiene practices and promoting a sustainable, climate-sensitive approach. Key project activities include the construction and rehabilitation of essential infrastructure such as drinking water treatment systems, hand-washing points and sanitary blocks. In addition, training sessions on hygiene and waste management will be organized to raise awareness and empower community members to adopt sustainable, environmentally friendly practices.

At the official launch of the project in the above-mentioned communes, local authorities expressed their support and commitment to this vital initiative. Community representatives also praised the concerted effort being made to address urgent WASH needs, while stressing the importance of close collaboration between the various stakeholders to ensure the project’s success.

With the launch of the Global WASH project in Haiti, ASB is firmly committed to making a significant difference to the lives of the country’s most vulnerable communities. This project represents a crucial step forward towards a healthier, more sustainable and more inclusive future for all Haitians, and ASB stands firmly by the side of these communities in their quest for a better future, who have already shown their anticipated satisfaction.