The Business of Haiti: The Fine Line Between Chavez and Washington

The last crack down on the gangs of former President Aristide happened on December 23, 2006. Since then Haiti has been working its way back towards becoming a functioning country. People are going out at night without hearing gunshots. Kidnappings and murders are no longer part of everyday conversations. The parts of town we used to enjoy, until they were taken over by the gangs, are beginning to show signs of life. Delegations from the US, among other countries, have shown great optimism during recent visits to Haiti. It hasn't been easy. The multinational effort has been led by the Brazilians, but Chile, Argentina, the US, France and Canada have all strongly participated as the United Nations.

What's next you may ask?

JOBS.

If Haiti doesn't begin to attract investors soon, it's all going to be for naught. Haitians need jobs and if necessary they'll take boats and enter the United States or Caribbean job market. That's not necessary however. Haitians would rather stay home.

HOPE, a textile job bill recently passed in the US Congress, is projected to create at least ten thousand jobs in Haiti but it's not enough. Not only do we need jobs in Haiti but we also need job training. Technical programs should be incorporated in High Schools and Colleges to prepare future workers. Haitians are good people and Haiti is right off the coast of Florida so it's convenient. Let's create stability here in our own neighborhood. In the long run it will be to everyone's advantage.

There is another option. Ignore Haiti and let Chavez handle things. He already sells gas to Haiti at 50% off, with the balance as a twenty-five year low interest loan. He also wants to build a refinery here. My question is, does Chavez want to help Haitians or is he trying to create an anti-American political block in the hemisphere?