Reforestation and agroecology initiatives for the ecological reintegration of migrants – Northern Department

CONTEXT

The northern department, and particularly the Cap-Haïtien area, is facing a multidimensional crisis characterized by severe environmental degradation and persistent economic insecurity. Deforestation, soil erosion, and growing pressure on natural resources are significantly reducing the productive capacities of rural families, in a context also marked by security challenges. 

At the same time, the Northern Department is receiving a growing number of returning Haitian migrants, often deported from the United States or the Dominican Republic. These individuals return in a highly vulnerable situation, with few economic opportunities, to communities already weakened by poverty and food insecurity. 

In this context, supporting the sustainable economic reintegration of migrants through agroecology and reforestation is a key lever for restoring livelihoods, strengthening family resilience, and contributing to the sustainable management of ecosystems.

OBJECTIVES 

• Conduct a territorial and socio-economic diagnosis to identify the needs, potential, and constraints for implementing agroecology and agroforestry activities 
• Train returning migrants and their host families in agroecological practices adapted to the local context 
• Support migrants in establishing sustainable income-generating activities based on agroecology 
• Support grassroots community organizations (GCOs) to encourage local initiatives for integration, mutual support, and territorial anchoredness. 

RESULTS

• 01 documented baseline situation 
• 75 migrants trained in agroecological and agroforestry practices, acquiring technical skills adapted to their production conditions 
• 75 migrants accompanied in launching sustainable agricultural activities (small farms, agroforestry gardens, green micro-enterprises) 
• Strengthening of local community-based organisations, mobilised to monitor, facilitate, and integrate beneficiaries into local development initiatives 

KEY PROJECT INFORMATION