Haiti: Impact of civil unrest on the humanitarian response – Flash Update (7 to 9 February 2024) – Haiti

Highlights

• Since the last update on 7 February, the situation across the country has remained volatile, continuing to affect humanitarian operations. Suspension or a slow down of activities have been noted across the country, both from UN agencies, international and national NGOs.

• In Gonaives, a handful of cases of looting and arson have been reported, with food storages being targeted.

• Humanitarian organisations are concerned about civilians in Bas-Artibonite, among others, where needs have been critical for weeks.

• However, there has been a timid resumption of socio-economic activities in certain areas of Portau-Prince, including Pétion-Ville and Delmas. While most of humanitarian organizations work remotely during the week, many are planning to resume their operations this weekend.

• On 7 February, Prime Minister Ariel Henry addressed the nation in a broadcast during which he promised to continue the consultation with political parties and civil society and work with them toward the election.

Impact on health

• This week’s insecurity has meant that hospitals have consumed their oxygen supply without being able to replenish their stock. There are reports that one of the main suppliers is having difficulties accessing its stock on one of the main ports.

• In the Sud, Nippes, and Sud-Est departments, some clinics and medical facilities are reallocating medicine and supplies across the communities. Weeks of insecurity and poor road access have meant that large stocks of medicine remain stuck in Port-au-Prince.

Impact on education and child protection

• In a statement on 8 February, UNICEF said it was deeply concerned by the impact of the violence on children and called an end. The agency said it was imporptant to maintain essential services such as educationm healthcare and protection. Full statement here.

Impact food security.

• Food distribution programmes have also been slowed or halted due to the insecurity and the scarcity of fuel. A number of shops and local markets that were closed for most of the week have resumed today, according to reports.

Impact on transportation.

• UNHAS and commercial domestic flights have resumed timidly