Compiled by Rachele Viard
Algae invades the South
For the past year, an unusual species of algae known as sargassum has invaded the greater south areas of Haiti. The cities most impacted are St. Jean du Sud, Les Cayes, St. Louis du Sud, Côtes de fer, Jacmel, Cayes Jacmel, and Marigot. This alga has been affecting the French Antilles since 2011. Once the sargassum reaches land, they form thick piles and release hydrogen sulfide as they decompose. It is a gas with an odor similar to that of rotten eggs. In addition, the gas can be hazardous if inhaled over a long period with symptoms such as headache, vomiting, difficulty breathing, irritation of the eyes, ears, throat, etc.
Egg production has significantly increased
Egg production has increased significantly between 2010 and 2015 from 1 million to more than 6 million eggs a month. Moreover, the eggs produced can compete with the imported eggs, which from the most part are the result of dumping and smuggling. The Haitian government commissioned a study in 2015, which revealed that the country under the leadership of the Ministry of Agriculture can maintain the increased production of eggs, which will be beneficial for the population.
However, there are certain constraints.
- Compliance with trade standards at the Haitian-Dominican border. If the imported eggs are not declared to customs, investments in Haiti could be problematic.
- Constraint concerns regarding the economic aspects of certain links in the chain; and
- Credit needed to make necessary investments.
Taiwan not interested in Haiti’s politics
Hwang-Tsai Chiu, Ambassador of the Republic of China-Taiwan in Haiti, stated during a press conference, which took place on Dec. 30 that politics is not at the core of the relationship established between the two countries for over 60 years. Rather, they focus on community development projects.
“We are not interested in politics,” Chiu said . During 2016, Taiwan intends to focus on solar energy development projects in Haiti. The Ambassador also noted that he was very pleased with the success of projects which took place in 2015.