December 23, 2024
The Haitian government has adopted a budget of over 323 billion gourdes for the fiscal year 2024-2025, with a particular focus on education, security, infrastructure, and social assistance. This budget, effective from October 1st, reflects the authorities’ commitment to addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges by allocating significant resources to key sectors.
Major Investments in Education
The Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP) will receive more than 42 billion gourdes, marking a 24% increase compared to the previous year. Education is presented as a central pillar for stability and development, with several measures planned to strengthen this sector. The budget will enable the recruitment and training of new teachers, the distribution of school textbooks, and the development of infrastructure, including school cafeterias. Additionally, a 14th month of salary will be paid to civil servants to support families during the back-to-school period.
Prime Minister Garry Conille emphasized the importance of equitable access to education for all Haitian children, stating that the work will not be finished until every child has the same opportunities from their first day of school.
Focus on Security and Social Support
Public security and social assistance are also key priorities in this budget. Over 36 billion gourdes have been allocated to the Ministry of Justice and Public Security. The budgets for the Haitian National Police (PNH) and the Ministry of Defense have increased by 36% and 256%, respectively. This substantial increase underscores the focus on security aimed at stabilizing the country.
In the social sector, additional funds have been allocated to the ministries of Social Affairs, Health, and Agriculture. The government aims to strengthen assistance programs to fight poverty and improve the well-being of the population.
Financing Details
The 2024-2025 budget is primarily based on domestic resources, amounting to 215.6 billion gourdes, generated from taxes and duties collected on national economic activities. International partners’ donations and loans, which represent project-based aid, contribute 75.1 billion gourdes, while other domestic resources total 2.4 billion gourdes.
Total expenditures are set at 324.4 billion gourdes. Current expenditures amount to 175 billion gourdes, of which 92 billion are allocated to civil servants’ salaries and 56 billion to the purchase of goods and services. Additionally, capital expenditures are projected at 147.9 billion gourdes, and 22.3 billion gourdes are earmarked for public debt repayment.
An Ambitious Roadmap
This budget represents a decisive step toward improving living conditions in Haiti, while acknowledging that many challenges remain. Garry Conille expressed his determination to work towards a more stable future, with a focus on creating opportunities for the youth and enhancing security. Although the resources have been allocated ambitiously, their efficient use and the implementation of the announced projects will be crucial in achieving the set goals.