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I was deeply moved by the recent two-part series discussing the need for decentralization in Haiti. It echoes sentiments I have long held, but often felt were isolated. For me, decentralizing major infrastructures is not merely a matter of debate me; it is a passionate advocacy grounded in a desire for a more equitable and resilient future for our nation.

For too long, those of us advocating for decentralization have faced criticism and ridicule, accused of being insensitive to the plight of those suffering from gang activities in metropolitan Port-au-Prince. However, I firmly believe that the concentration of resources and infrastructure in certain urban centers exacerbates rather than alleviates these issues. While insecurity may be concentrated in less than 10% of the country, its impact extends far beyond those boundaries, affecting a quarter of the population. We cannot afford to neglect the peaceful regions, where a majority of the people reside while focusing solely on the concentrated hotspots of violence.

One glaring example of the consequences of centralization is the fuel crisis that regularly grips our nation. The blockade of roads leading to Varreux, Haitis primary fuel storage location, paralyzes the entire economy and disrupts the lives of countless citizens. This is not simply a matter of gang activity; it is a systemic flaw stemming from overreliance on a single point of distribution. Imagine the resilience we could achieve if we decentralized fuel storage to at least three dispersed geographic locations across the country, mitigating the impact of such disruptions and ensuring a more reliable energy supply.

Decentralization is not a mere buzzword either. It is a fundamental shift in governance that holds the key to unlocking Haitis full potential. By empowering local communities and distributing resources more equitably, we can foster economic development and social cohesion across the nation. By the way, the Haitian constitution mandates for the country to be decentralized. Decisions have been made not to implement what is required, thus contributing to the reality we face today.

I refuse to rest until I witness a paradigm shift in policy-making towards decentralization. It is time for our leaders to prioritize the long-term interests of the entire nation over short-sighted gains. Let us work together to build a Haiti where prosperity and security are not privileges reserved for the few, but rights enjoyed by all. A decentralization of the country significantly contributes to this much better future.

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Letter | Decentralization: A path to stability and progress in Haiti - Haitian Times