One hundred fifty young builders have successfully completed training in three months on the practices and techniques of masonry. The program, aimed at young people from poor neighborhoods is jointly sponsored by USAID / KATA and CEMEX, a company of construction materials. The program was among others on how to manufacture masonry blocks of quality but also included an entrepreneurial training to help them start their own micro-enterprise. This training also helps to support the country's efforts to rebuild better homes and other buildings using blocks of superior quality.

"The program helps them learn valuable skills and empowers them to improve their lives and their families," said Alberto Wilde, director of CHF International in Haiti. "When I worked for a boss, I earned 2.500 gours ($62.50). But with my own business I'm about 5,000 gourds ($125). I reinvested half of my winnings for my business grows, now I am preparing to hire a worker for even more productivity," said Alcide Delcy, 23.

The graduates received tools and a construction guide. At the graduation ceremony, Linda Gaillard, CEMEX representatives told the graduates, "You have training in your head, and tools in your hands. Now it's up to you to do your best" comments that sparked cheers from all young masons.

BF / HaitiLibre