Haiti is a country of strength, innovation, and unwavering hope.

For decades, Haiti’s story as portrayed by the global media has been dominated by tales of crisis, instability, and despair. Natural disasters, political turmoil, and economic struggles have overshadowed the Haitian people's resilience, progress, and rich cultural heritage. However, Haiti is far more than the headlines suggest.  

Haiti’s narrative has long been overshadowed by tales of adversity, often eclipsing the resilience and progress that flourish within its borders. Haiti faces a profound crisis. Currently, statistics show that armed gangs exert control over approximately 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince. This dominance has led to widespread displacement, with over a million residents forced from their homes, and a surge in violence resulting in more than 5,600 deaths in 2024 alone. The pervasive insecurity has severely disrupted essential services, including healthcare and education, further exacerbating the humanitarian emergency.

While challenges remain, numerous initiatives and developments paint a picture of hope and advancement, revealing a side of Haiti that deserves recognition.
 
A Change in Leadership and a Path Forward
 

Haiti is undergoing a significant political transition. 

A recent shift in leadership has seen the emergence of Fritz Alphonse Jean, an economist and former Central Bank Governor, to replace Leslie Voltaire in the rotating presidency of the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), which works with Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aime to help run the country and plan towards the next general elections aimed for 2026. 

On his inauguration, His Excellency Fritz Alphonse Jean called on Haitians to be united to bring peace to Haiti. This change of guard presents an opportunity for renewed governance, security improvements, and economic restoration. 

There is increased skepticism and concern among the Haitian populace on the effectiveness of the CPT, particularly under Voltaire's tenure. The CPT so far has been viewed as ineffective in curbing the escalating crisis. Jean's appointment brings cautious optimism; his inaugural address emphasized unity and the necessity for a ‘war-adjusted budget’ to combat the security challenges. However, the public remains wary, awaiting tangible improvements in their daily lives.

The new administration, with international support, has to aim to stabilize the nation and create policies that prioritize the interests of Haitians. The potential benefits of such leadership change include:  

The Transformative Role of the Eben-Ezer Mission

Founded in 1969, the Eben-Ezer Mission has become a pillar of empowerment and development in Haiti. Based in Gonaïves, the Eben-Ezer Mission serves as a key organization driving transformational change and sustainability with remarkable impact across all ten departments of Haiti.

Under the leadership of Pastor Michel Morisset, who started his mission work at just 19 years old, the organization has significantly influenced education, healthcare, and community development in Haiti.  

Pastor Morisset’s visionary leadership has propelled Eben-Ezer’s expansion, making it a model of grassroots-driven change in Haiti. The mandate is to enable ‘transformation, not just temporary solutions’. Leveraging 50 years of experience, the Mission believes that the most effective way to combat poverty and drive lasting change in Haiti is through transformative solutions. Hence, further efforts have seen the Mission hold Haitian licenses in shipping, airport development, and broadcasting.

Infrastructure Advancements: Antoine Simon Airport
 

Haiti’s Antoine Simon Airport in Les Cayes has seen improved upgrades, positioning it as a significant alternative to Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. Given the instability in the capital, this development is a strategic boost for transportation, trade, and tourism.  

The airport’s readiness is expected to expand trade opportunities by improving cargo transport for local businesses, attract tourism to the southern coastal regions – known for their scenic beauty and historical sites, and enhance emergency response by providing a functional air route for aid organizations. 

Such infrastructural improvement marks an important step in decentralizing Haiti’s economy and promoting regional development.

Other Contributions to Haiti’s Stability

Beyond Eben-Ezer, other organizations are helping Haiti to remain stable in its time of crisis. These organizations include Fondation Barbancourt engaging in youth empowerment programs, Fonkoze empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs through microfinance and financial literacy programs, Hope for Haiti providing healthcare, education, and economic development initiatives in the southern regions, Kore Lavi tackling food insecurity through sustainable agricultural practices and nutritional education, and Rebuild Globally which creates jobs through sustainable fashion and ethical manufacturing practices.

There is also the active participation and engagement of the Haitian diaspora. More members of the global Haitian diaspora are investing in local businesses, supporting education, and advocating for policies that benefit the country’s long-term development. The Haitian diaspora has long been a pillar of financial support for the country. Remittances from Haitians abroad account for nearly 30% of Haiti’s GDP, providing a lifeline for families and local businesses. However, experts argue that remittances alone are not enough to foster long-term economic growth. 

Haitian export in music and film continues to gain attention and international recognition, with musicians blending traditional rhythms with contemporary influences, and filmmakers showcasing the country's rich history and resilience. The annual carnivals and cultural festivals continue despite political instability affecting some celebrations. Many regions continue to host local festivals, keeping traditions alive and fostering national unity.

At the grassroots level, community-led security initiatives thrive as several neighborhoods have taken proactive measures to establish local peace initiatives, collaborating with law enforcement and international partners to protect communities.

A Future of Possibilities

While Haiti’s struggles are undeniable, hope and progress exist alongside the difficulties. The change in leadership, security plans, community-driven efforts like the Eben-Ezer Mission, and important infrastructural developments demonstrate Haiti’s resilience and potential.  

The world must move beyond a single narrative of crisis and acknowledge Haiti’s growth, creativity, and enduring spirit. The road ahead will require local and international collaboration, but with the right steps, Haiti can reshape its future and emerge stronger than ever.  

Haiti is not a country of hardship defined by war or violence—it is a nation of strength, perseverance, and unyielding hope.