France Supports Women’s Access to Construction Jobs in Jacmel, Haiti
The Association of Construction Technicians (ATECO) has launched a project in Jacmel aimed at improving women’s access to careers in the construction sector. This initiative, funded by the French Embassy through the “Fonds Équipe France” (FEF), seeks to address gender disparities in a field predominantly viewed as male-dominated and to enhance women’s economic empowerment.
Women face numerous barriers in entering technical trades or securing job opportunities in construction. However, initiatives like ATECO’s are helping to change this narrative in Jacmel, where women are starting to establish themselves in the industry.
“For a long time, women were led to believe that certain jobs, especially those in construction, weren’t meant for them,” said Sœurette Toussaint, a building construction technician. “Thanks to ATECO, I can say that we are beginning to overcome this challenge. Today, we realize that no profession is reserved exclusively for men.”
As part of the project, 35 participants—65% of whom are women—received training in various construction-related areas, equipping them with the technical and practical skills essential for entering the workforce.
Sœurette Toussaint has already secured a job at a construction site in Jacmel. “I can say that this job has improved my economic situation. Thanks to the skills I learned through this project, we have become self-reliant,” she stated.
Jonas Milien, President of ATECO, emphasized that the project is pivotal in changing perceptions surrounding women in Haiti’s construction sector. He views it as an opportunity to challenge stereotypes that hinder women’s access to technical professions and to encourage their involvement in all phases of construction work.
The French Embassy is supporting ATECO’s efforts to combine vocational training with economic empowerment and gender equality promotion. This initiative aligns with the FEF’s objectives of aiding Haitian civil society organizations dedicated to advancing women’s rights.
“This project illustrates France’s vision of feminist diplomacy in Haiti,” commented Laurent Clavel, Counselor for Cooperation and Cultural Action at the French Embassy. He added, “By opening up construction trades and technical fields to these women, we demonstrate that the transition toward more inclusive societies requires valuing all talent—free from stereotypes or exclusion.”
