Above: Jacmel, Haiti

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Haiti’s plan to decentralize power from the capital in Port-au-Prince is moving forward, as residents of the cities of Jacmel, Port de Paix and Leogane have participated in the Ministry of Interior’s Katye Pam Poe programme.

The initiative, which was launched in March, involves the creation of so-called “cafes” where residents can engage in dialogue with government entities, citizens and local officials.

Thus far, hundreds of citizens have participated in such discussions.

“I am extremely pleased with the turnout, people’s openness and willingness to make a difference in their communities and to personally commit to making it happen,” said Thierry Mayard Paul, Haiti’s Minister of Interior.

“This is exactly the purpose of Katye Pam Poze, to bring decision-making closer to the people while promoting good governance, boosting economic development and job creation and delivering public services as efficiently as possible.”

Seven additional community “cafes” are set to take place to cover each of Haiti’s 10 regional departments.

President Martelly has called the program “a turning point” for Haiti’s communities.

The cafes have thus far focused on several challenges, including safety and security, education, health services and the environment.

“In the end, our goal is to improve the quality of life of the Haitian people by enabling safe and prosperous communities, right where they live,” Mayard-Paul said. “This is an ambitious decentralization program.”