Only one in four health facilities across the department remains accessible due to security-related challenges
Lalaina F. Andriamasinoro & Herold Joseph
GONAIVES, Haiti, 5 October 2023 – In response to the collapsing health system in the Artibonite department of northern Haiti, UNICEF has deployed 54 dedicated healthcare professionals to breathe new life into a department where most healthcare facilities remain inaccessible due to deteriorating security conditions.
Among these heroes is Gladys Chery, a 28-year-old graduate from the Notre Dame School of Nursing in Gonaïves. While many of her peers chose to leave the country, Gladys made the resolute decision to stay and support her compatriots during this historic moment of need.
Jeanniton Berthaud, 38, a graduate of the Technological University of Santiago in the neighboring Dominican Republic, adds his expertise to this vital mission. After working in a private clinic in Gonaives, which had to close its doors due to fears of vandalism by armed groups, Jeanniton volunteered before being selected as part of the first cohort supported by the Department of Health of Artibonite, with UNICEF's support.
"The situation in this department is incredibly challenging. Parents no longer know where to turn when their children fall ill. There's a significant influx of displaced people into Gonaives city from neighboring municipalities. Existing healthcare staff sometimes can't keep up. Additional personnel are crucial to meet these demands," he explains.
"Being a nurse is not just a profession; it's a calling. The people of Artibonite are going through a tough time. The department has seen a surge in cases of cholera, malnutrition, and many other illnesses. This is the moment when my country needs me the most," Gladys Chery, her eyes filled with determination, speaks of her commitment.
Amidst this crisis, Artibonite's healthcare system is on the verge of collapse. Six out of sixteen communes face access constraints due to armed group violence and presence. The number of internally displaced persons (IDPs) has skyrocketed by 130%, rising from 10,000 IDPs in April to 22,000 in July 2023. Only one in four health facilities across the department remains accessible due to security-related challenges.
A staggering 745,000+ people in Artibonite are food insecure, struggling to access basic nutrition. Severe wasting has surged from 0.8% in 2020 to 1.7% in 2023, with over 2,700 children suffering from acute malnutrition. Cholera cases have dramatically increased, with 11,000 children at risk.
"UNICEF's deployment of these dedicated healthcare professionals is a critical step in shoring up the crumbling healthcare system. Their unwavering commitment will serve as a lifeline for thousands of children and families in a department where social services are on the brink, ensuring these children receive the essential healthcare they so desperately need," Bruno Maes, UNICEF Representative in Haiti emphasized.