Words by Stephane Romuald Blanc. 

Nippes, Haiti- Amidst the backdrop of political upheaval and escalating violence following the resignation of Haiti’s interim Prime Minister Ariel Henry, the nation finds itself grappling with a multifaceted crisis. Gangs have surged to dominance in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, wielding terror through acts of kidnapping and murder, plunging communities into a state of fear and uncertainty. Diplomatic exodus, exemplified by the departure of the German ambassador, underscores the severity of the situation. In the midst of this chaos, one of the gravest concerns is combating child malnutrition amid Haiti’s crisis, which exacerbates an already dire humanitarian situation.

Child malnutrition is a heartbreaking reality in Haiti. However, hope shines through the efforts of Malteser International Americas in four communes of the Nippes department. Last year, 699 children were able to recover from malnutrition thanks to this project, but unfortunately, we also had to deal with the loss of four precious lives. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives, families and communities affected by the tragedy of malnutrition. 

Since the beginning of this year, Malteser International Americas has already recovered 157 children in the communities of Petit Trou de Nippes, Petite Rivière de Nippes, l’Asile and Baradères, including 68 in January, and 89 in February. Each child recovered is a victory, a story of struggle and triumph over malnutrition. 

Jocelène Lormil, a mother whose child is currently benefiting from Malteser International's services at the Baradères health center, shares her experience: 

 “I almost lost my child. He was suffering and losing weight every day. Agents referred us to the Baradères health center, and I took the baby there without asking any questions. The nurses teach us how to feed our children well with the little we have, and they give us plump nuts for the baby every time we visit, as well as free medicines. I've also received cash to help me start a small business that I hope will grow in the future”. 

This testimony highlights the impact of Malteser International Americas' intervention in the lives of vulnerable families. By providing not only medical and nutritional care, but also financial support to help families become self-sufficient, we work to transform lives and build stronger communities.

“From severe malnutrition to near recovery, I am truly grateful for the services my baby received from Malteser International,” says Lormil. 

As we celebrate the successes of January and February 2024, it's important to remember that the work is not over. The persistent challenges of child malnutrition require continued commitment and collective action. This data is not only a testament to our past impact, but also a call to action for the future, especially during these difficult times. 

Together, we can make a lasting difference in the fight against child malnutrition in Haiti. Join us in this noble mission to give children a healthier and more promising future. 

Help Haiti today!

Malteser International Americas (MI Americas) is an affiliate of Malteser International (MI) and is the international humanitarian relief agency of the Sovereign Order of Malta. Since 1956, we have provided relief and recovery for people during and following conflicts and disasters around the world. Christian values and humanitarian principles form the foundations of our work. In over 35 countries in Africa, the Americas, Asia, and the Middle East, we support people in need – regardless of their religion, origin, or political convictions. In the Americas, MI Americas is currently implementing projects in the fields of Health, Relief, Reconstruction & Rehabilitation; Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH), Sustainable Livelihoods, Disaster Risk Reduction, and Climate Change Adaption in Colombia, Haiti, Peru, Mexico, and the USA. Further information: www.orderofmaltarelief.org