The Ministry of Women's Affairs and Women's Rights, in collaboration with its partners: Rally of Madan Sara of Haiti (RAMSA), UN Women, the United Nations Agency for Sexual and Reproductive Health (UNFPA), the Organization of American States (OAS), the National Identification Office (ONI) and the National Archives, celebrated the International Day of Women Living in Rural Areas (October 15), at the communal initiative center of Kenscoff.

To mark this important date, the commune of Kenscoff hosted a large gastro-artisanal fair showcasing Haitian gastronomy and women's artisanal production. A parade of peasant women from different organizations, songs and choreographies highlighting the talents and know-how of Haitian peasant women made up the program of a day rich in activities.

In her speech, Marie Françoise Suzan, Minister for Women's Affairs, praised the courage and resilience of the "Madan Sara" and the leading role they play in the Haitian economy "The International Day of Rural Women is not a simple commemoration; it is a cry of recognition towards those who, despite the obstacles, carry on their shoulders the weight of the survival of their families and agricultural production. They do not just feed their homes, they feed an entire nation. They represent the backbone of our rural economy, an unshakeable pillar of our society."

Minister Suzan did not spare her words to describe the sad realities of these women. "Although essential to society, they often face multiple obstacles: limited access to health services, social protection, education, and agricultural resources. They are also more vulnerable to gender-based violence, with increased risks of suffering abuse without receiving the necessary support. This lack of resources and legal protection often leaves them helpless in the face of the injustices they suffer. In this sense, the CPT [Presidential Transitional Council] and the entire Government are committed to acting firmly and strengthening their efforts to promote the empowerment of these women and to put in place programs to combat gender-based violence that continues to affect our sisters in rural areas. This violence is unacceptable and must stop immediately."

In addition, thanks to the strategic partnership between the Ministry, ONI, the National Archives and the OAS, a considerable number of women registered to collect their National Identification Card (CIN) during the day. This partnership aims to guarantee Haitian women, particularly those in rural areas, access to their CIN and to encourage them to actively participate in the upcoming elections.

IH/ iciHaiti