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Empowering Rural Livelihoods in Haiti

Uncovering the Diverse Economic Landscape of Rural Haiti

Despite the dominance of agriculture in rural Haiti, our insights reveal a nuanced picture of economic activities. While 78% of households engage in farming, a significant 46% also participate in the non-farm sector - from input suppliers to value-adding enterprises. This diversification is particularly prevalent in the Ouest region, where access to education and infrastructure enables more households to venture into non-agricultural pursuits.

The Vital Role of Female-Headed Households

Our data sheds light on the important economic contributions of female-headed households. These households are twice as likely to be engaged solely in non-farm enterprises, highlighting the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of rural Haitian women. In fact, female-headed households make up over 51% of non-farm enterprises, underscoring the critical role this sector plays in their livelihoods.

Unlocking the Path to Prosperity

The findings also reveal that households diversifying into non-farm activities experience lower levels of poverty compared to those relying solely on agriculture. This emphasizes the importance of supporting the development of rural non-farm enterprises, which can provide a crucial complement to traditional farming and improve the overall well-being of rural communities.

By understanding the nuances of the rural Haitian economy, we can design tailored interventions that empower households, particularly female-headed ones, to thrive through a balanced approach of farming and non-farm pursuits. Together, we can unlock new pathways to prosperity and build a more resilient, equitable future for rural Haiti.