The challenge of delivering food to Haitians recovering from the January 12th earthquake has taken a new dimension. More food aid and locally grown food is available, but devising an effective system to distribute food remains a challenge. Currently, over 20 aid agencies, as well as the Haitian government are competing to mobilize distribution efforts of these much-needed supplies.
The Miami Herald reports how Haiti’s Prime Minister, Jean-Max Bellerive traveled to a donor conference for Haiti that took place in Montreal to remind “…other governments that Haiti’s emergency needs will not end for months, maybe years.” Bellerive returned to Haiti with food supplies and the government has begun its own distribution, citing that “We could not wait anymore that the international community organize by their standards.”
These standards have frustrated some Haitians. with all parties recognizing that food distribution will be a concern long after the cleanup. The UN World Food Programme (WFP) created a coupon system to distribute food aid, replacing a chaotic and often ineffective line-up system for food aid deliveries. Because of strong-arm tactics by men to overwhelm those in line for food, women will be the only ones allowed to use the coupons to collect 55 lb. bags of rice (although others can help them carry it away).
To help Haiti for the long haul, the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) announced a call for international donors to fund a 18-month, $700 million plan to secure Haiti’s domestic food production. Oxfam described how international aid has restocked supplies and driven down costs. With local produce now starting to make its way to market, Haitians will need cash to purchase locally produced food supplies.
The New York Times examined the aid challenges that Haiti presented before the earthquake and approaches considered for long-term rebuilding.
Posted by Michael Lucivero.
