Conference on Disaster Response in Haiti’s Grand Sud

Ten months after a 7.2 earthquake destroyed homes, schools, clinics, and other critical infrastructure across Haiti’s southwestern peninsula, local stakeholders representing over 60 organizations and over a dozen local officials gathered in Les Cayes. Co-organizers Haiti Response Coalition and Haiti Development Institute facilitated two days of dialogue to evaluate the response to the August 2021 earthquake and to take stock of where we are now.

A key objective of the conference was to move beyond discussions of lessons learned and best practices and to strategize about concrete next steps that build on what we know now. In addition to participatory discussions, provocative panels, and small group workshops, the Beyond Lessons Learned Conference focused on operationalizing lessons learned by building systems and structures that put Haitian communities in control of assessing and reporting their own needs in times of crisis.

A new approach to disaster planning and response requires new tools that are tailored to Haitians. The Coalition and HDI were excited to announce a new coordination tool that was developed by Haitians for Haitians. Ayiti Analytics developed a virtual dashboard that includes an interactive map and dynamic database that can show real time need and resources across Haiti. A mobile application makes it possible for any community representative with a cell phone to submit an assessment of their community’s needs and resources. The app was developed in Haitian kreyòl and includes the option to request or offer resources.

Click below to view videos and photos from the Beyond Lessons Learned Conference in Les Cayes and read a summary of the program here. Watch this space for more details and next steps!