The Dominican Republic has granted permission for the export of 20,500 gallons of diesel to Haiti, primarily intended for hospitals struggling with severe fuel shortages. This decision comes as gangs continue to blockade a crucial fuel terminal in Haiti, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the country.
Letters reviewed indicate that AFA Trading, the company responsible for the request, communicated directly with the Dominican industry ministry on October 17. The fuel will be transported across the land border and is aimed at supporting three hospitals and one manufacturing facility. The diesel is described as re-exported, implying it was originally imported to the Dominican Republic.
Hospitals in Haiti have been particularly hard-hit by the fuel shortages, with many forced to reduce or completely halt operations due to a lack of diesel needed to run generators. These generators are critical for ensuring a stable power supply in light of persistent outages from Haiti’s power grid. The situation is further complicated by a cholera outbreak and existing shortages of food and water within the country.
The Dominican Republic’s industry ministry did not respond to requests for additional comments regarding the export approval. AFA Trading has also not commented on the situation.
The blockade by gangs is part of a broader demand for the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry. In response to the ongoing crisis, the United Nations has held discussions about deploying a military force to address gang activities and reopen the fuel terminal.
As the humanitarian and cholera crises deepen in Haiti, the delivery of diesel from the Dominican Republic offers a glimmer of hope for hospitals struggling to provide essential care.
