In a context marked by the accelerated degradation of ecosystems and increasing pressure on natural resources, the Municipal Commission of Cap-Haitien has taken a decisive step, by proceeding this week with the official creation of the Cap-Haïtien Watershed Management Committee (CGBV).

This initiative is directly in line with the municipal decree declaring a state of environmental emergency https://www.icihaiti.com/en/news-43931-icihaiti-port-de-paix-state-of-environmental-emergency-declared.html , under Article 2, paragraph 4, which provides for the establishment of a Committee dedicated to the management of the Morne du Cap-Haïtien watershed (from La Voûte to Fort Picolet).

To effectively respond to environmental challenges, this Management Committee brings together a coalition of 19 key institutions, combining expertise and commitment. These institutions include :

The Mayor of the Municipality of Cap-Haitien;

A representative of the Ministry of Agriculture (MARNDR);

A representative of the Ministry of the Environment (MdE);

A representative of the Communal Civil Protection;

A representative of the Justice sector;

A representative of the National Police of Haiti (PNH);

A representative of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of the North (CCIN);

A representative of the press;

A representative of the Capoise Society of History and Heritage;

A representative of the Institute for the Preservation of National Heritage (ISPAN);

A representative of the University;

A representative of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF).

A representative of the Ministry of Public Works (MTPTC);

A representative of the Ministry of Tourism;

A representative of the National Solid Waste Management Service (SNGRS);

A representative of the Ministry of Defense;

A representative of the Organization for the Management of the Destination of Northern Haiti (OGDNH);

A representative of the National Authority for Protected Areas (ANAP);

A representative of the Haitian Heritage Reflection and Action Group (GRAPH).

In addition, to ensure the coordination and monitoring of the Committee’s actions, an executive office will be set up. This office will include representatives from the following institution :

Cap-Haitien City Hall (MCH);

Northern Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIN);

Ministries of Agriculture and the Environment (including ANAP and SNGRS);

Ministry of Defense (FAd’H);

Haiti National Police (PNH);

Ministry of Public Works (MTPTC);

Capoise Society of History and Heritage;

University.

It is important to emphasize that the Cap-Haitien watershed is vital to the municipality. Indeed, it provides essential environmental services such as water regulation, air purification, and protection against flood risks. However, this crucial resource is jeopardized by rapid urbanization, excessive exploitation of its natural resources, and unsustainable practices.

Thus, the Watershed Management Committee's main mission is to coordinate efforts to :

- Restore degraded ecosystems and prevent natural risks;

- Mobilize technical and financial resources for conservation projects;

- Raise awareness among communities about the importance of environmental preservation;

- Strengthen local capacities for sustainable management of natural resources.

HL/ HaitiLibre