Vacations are approaching: what initiatives are planned?

In the past, in Haiti, vacations were marked by numerous activities, especially football. This year, have any special sports initiatives been announced by the public sector to offer vacationers a pleasant atmosphere? On this subject, Le Relief Inter conducted a street poll in certain streets of Port-au-Prince. It follows that very few initiatives have been announced. The majority of people interviewed are young people and adolescents. Without hesitation, all responded: « We don't feel like we're on vacation. Raising the question in Haiti's current context seems illusory. » They explain this by the problem of insecurity: « How can one enjoy their vacation when all areas and places of attraction are controlled by criminals? » Indeed, one of the main activities organized in neighborhoods during this summer period is football, but the fields and spaces dedicated to this sport are also under control. Furthermore, those interviewed fear being victims of violence, as gangs shoot multiple times a day. « We are afraid of being hit by stray bullets, » they declared, stating that even if they considered going to the provinces, the roads are blocked. « In short, we cannot speak of vacations in Haiti, » Junior said bitterly, his face marked by sadness. Can one truly enjoy their vacation at home in such a climate? The citizens interviewed believe it is impossible. They cite two factors: the economic situation and the current mental state of Haitians. To entertain oneself, adequate equipment and appropriate infrastructure are needed. They emphasized that they struggle to get food daily, let alone buy balls or other games. Moreover, both schoolchildren and students experience daily stress due to bad news reported by the media and on social networks. « We simply exist, we don't truly live in Haiti, » Judith declared to express her despair. Furthermore, these Haitians denounce the inaction of authorities in the face of increasing violence in the country. They demand the restoration of order and security. What about the Ministry of Sports and Civic Action? As of Friday, June 27, 2025, no special announcement regarding vacations has been made by the Ministry of Sports and Civic Action. Ordinarily, football championships are organized throughout the country. However, both the ministry and the Haitian Football Federation remain largely silent on this issue. Will there be a special announcement soon? Given the climate of insecurity, the situation remains uncertain, as acts of violence persist and insecurity continues to plague everywhere. It is important to note that despite this difficult reality faced by residents of metropolitan areas and Artibonite, some provincial cities are organizing to set up competitions. For example, in L'Asile in Nippes, Les Cayes, and Aquin, in the South, to name just a few. Gedeon Delva