UNDP Support in Haiti

UNDP has been supporting Haiti mostly in the area of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). A first phase of South-South exchanges on DRR with Cuba was completed in 2009, but the process was then interrupted by the devastating earthquake in January. The exchange enabled Haiti to review and strengthen their capacity to address hurricanes, particularly learning from the Early Warning Systems in Cuba. The exchange also looked at strengthening the National Disaster and Risk Management System and their capacities to carry out and coordinate rapid evacuations. The experience is now being systematised, and a second phase may be implemented in 2010.

In disaster risk reduction, there is also potential for further exchanges with Mexico through the translation, adaptation and application of a capacity development tool specifically for DRR. This work will also be strengthened through an agreement which exists between BCPR and the Capacity Development Group on implementing a quick and simple DRR Capacity Assessment. Quick capacity assessments are planned in four town councils, reviewing how they can best strengthen their institutions in the aftermath of the earthquake and take leadership in the planning and management of their reconstruction efforts.