On Friday, August 29, at the Montana Hotel, the Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) officially launched the national program for the Revitalization of Haiti's Sewing and Shoemaking Sectors (RSCCH), under the theme: "N ap koud fyète nou, n ap konsome lokal" (Let's sew our pride, let's consume locally).

Through this program, the MCI intends to promote the transmission of Haitian know-how, strengthen the technical capabilities of artisans, modernize workshops, encourage local entrepreneurship, and stimulate the consumption of products made in Haiti.

Sewing and shoemaking, beyond their cultural dimension, represent a strategic sector capable of generating decent jobs, providing opportunities for young people, and contributing to the revitalization of the national economy, stated Panel Paulémont, Director General of the MCI.

1. Modernize the sewing and shoemaking sector;

2. Facilitate access to financing for the development of these trades;

3. Promote competitiveness, structuring, and formalizing activities;

4. Strengthen support for Haitian designers.

"This is an ambitious program aimed at promoting Haitian know-how and increasing the competitiveness of our artisans," emphasized Paulémont.

For his part, Dikel Delvariste, Director General of the National Institute of Vocational Training (INFP), praised the program as an essential tool for increasing national production and reducing dependence on the international market, while structuring the sector and strengthening the capacity of vocational schools.

Ms. Dithny Joan Raton, Special Mediator for Labor and Clothing Manufacturing, emphasized that this initiative helps revive small-scale crafts while promoting tradition and national identity. "By supporting this initiative, we are creating jobs for our artisans and helping to build the Haiti of tomorrow," she stated.

James Monazard, Minister of Commerce and Industry, added "The manufacture of clothing, embroidery, and footwear bears the imprint of our history. Revitalizing these sectors, pillars of our economy, is part of an integrated vision for the future." He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting all artisans in their professional activities.

Axène Joseph, Director of the Prime Minister's Office, emphasized, on behalf of Prime Minister Fils Aimé, that the program represents an act of resistance and national pride. "The time has come to give national production a strategic place in Haiti's development."

The RSCCH aims to make crafts, the textile, and clothing industries a driver of economic transformation, mobilizing not only artisans and creators, but also the entire value chain: designers, mechanics, accessory and software manufacturers. This initiative is therefore part of a comprehensive strategy to enhance the Haitian economy and strengthen the national industrial fabric.

HL/ HaitiLibre