The UN Children's Agency reported on Saturday that criminal gangs in control of Haiti's capital, Port-au-Prince, looted an aid container containing essential items for maternal, neonatal, and child survival at the main port. This incident highlights the dire situation in Haiti, where political and humanitarian crises have led to widespread hunger and life-threatening malnutrition, particularly in the capital.
Haiti's unelected prime minister, Ariel Henry, recently announced his intention to step down once a transitional council is established. However, armed gangs have seized control of much of the city, leading to rampant violence, including killings, kidnappings, and sexual assaults.
UNICEF expressed concern over the looting of humanitarian supplies, emphasizing the critical need for these resources to support children in Haiti. The looted container contained vital equipment such as resuscitators, which are crucial for saving lives, particularly among vulnerable populations.
The agency noted that access to basic healthcare and nutrition is severely limited for women and children in the Port-au-Prince area, with three out of four women lacking essential services. Additionally, several hospitals in the city have closed due to safety concerns, leaving only two surgical facilities operational.
Hospitals nationwide are grappling with shortages of electricity, fuel, and medical supplies, leading to disruptions in healthcare services. Six out of ten facilities are unable to function adequately, exacerbating the healthcare crisis in Haiti.
