The Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MCI) has taken a decisive step in supporting Haitian businesswomen. As part of its Women's Entrepreneurship Support Program (PAEF), a strategic working session was held at the Montana Hotel to finalize preparations for the Regional Women's Entrepreneurship Fair, scheduled for March 7 and 8 in the Grand Sud region.

This initiative, spearheaded by Minister James Monazard, aims to transform women's economic empowerment into a concrete driver of national development.

In his opening remarks, Minister James Monazard reaffirmed that Haiti's future rests on its women entrepreneurs "We are preparing Haiti's future. Women are the pillars of the Haitian economy."

The PAEF is already supporting its first cohort of 40 beneficiaries. The goal is clear :

• To formalize women-led businesses.

• Offer training programs tailored to market realities.

• Strengthen synergy between national and international partners to leverage local resources.

The Minister also commended the leadership of Mona Lisa Dunbar, Coordinator of the PAEF (Program for the Economic and Social Development of Women Entrepreneurs), for implementing this institutional collaboration.

For Panel Paulemont, Director of Trade at the Ministry, the Greater South region, rich in economic potential, is the ideal location for this first regional edition.

Benefits for Women Entrepreneurs :

Visibility :

Exhibition booths to showcase local products.

Networking :

Spaces for business promotion and professional networking.

Growth :

Easier access to new economic opportunities and formalization.

The goal is to gradually integrate women working in the informal sector into the formal economy to ensure sustainable growth.

Mona Lisa Dunbar, coordinator of the PAEF (Women's Entrepreneurship Fair), emphasized the pivotal role of women in society "The PAEF is not a one-off event, but rather part of a long-term support system : structuring business activities; building the capacity of over 500 women; and providing technical support and funding in partnership with institutions such as the Industrial Development Fund (FDI)."

Scheduled for March 7 and 8, 2026, in the Grand South region, the regional women's entrepreneurship fair is positioned as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening women's active participation in regional economic development. The event will include exhibition booths, panel discussions, business promotion areas, and networking opportunities.

HL/ S/ HaitiLibre