Haiti’s “War Budget”: A Nation’s Fight Against Gang Dominance

In a decisive move to counter escalating gang violence, Haiti’s government has approved a “war budget” of $275,000.

This financial plan allocates nearly 40% to bolster police and military forces, 20% to strengthen the border with the Dominican Republic, and 16% to support social programs in education, healthcare, and humanitarian aid.

Despite these efforts, the situation remains dire, with gangs controlling approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince and extending their influence into central regions like Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau.

Central Haiti Under Siege

The towns of Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau have recently fallen victim to gang attacks. On March 30-31, heavily armed gangs assaulted Mirebalais, releasing over 530 inmates from a local prison and causing at least 60 deaths. The neighboring town of Saut-d’Eau was attacked on April 3, leading to further casualties and the disappearance of two journalists.

Humanitarian Crisis Deepens in Haiti

The violence has displaced over 1 million people, with more than 5,900 rendered homeless in recent attacks on Mirebalais and Saut-d’Eau. The United Nations reports that over 1,500 people were killed between January and March 27, 2025, highlighting the severity of the crisis.

A Struggle for Law and Leadership

Haiti’s fragile political landscape adds a layer of complexity to its security crisis. With no elected president and a transitional government struggling for legitimacy, law enforcement efforts often lack coordination and public trust. In many regions, gangs are viewed as more powerful than state authorities. They operate with near-impunity and exploiting the power vacuum left by years of political instability.

The approval of a “war budget” is a bold gesture, but without systemic political reform and long-term planning, critics argue it may amount to a temporary bandage on a deeply infected wound.

International Response and Challenges

A U.N.-backed mission led by Kenyan police has been deployed to assist Haitian authorities. However, the mission is currently operating at only 40% of its planned capacity. This is limiting its effectiveness in combating the widespread gang violence.

Community Resilience Amidst Chaos in Haiti

Despite the turmoil, Haitian communities continue to demonstrate resilience. Local organizations are working tirelessly to provide aid and support to those affected by the violence. Their efforts are crucial in maintaining a semblance of stability and hope in these challenging times.​

Voices from the Ground

In the midst of chaos, the human toll becomes heartbreakingly clear. Displaced families in Mirebalais recount fleeing their homes with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Schools and health clinics—already scarce—have closed in fear of violence.

And yet, within this darkness, stories of quiet heroism emerge. Neighbors are offering shelter to strangers, volunteers are risking their safety to deliver food, and community leaders are calling for peace on local radio stations.

As Haiti grapples with this unprecedented crisis, the international community’s support and the government’s strategic allocation of resources will be pivotal in restoring peace and order.

You might also want to read: Joe Rogan Slams Trump’s Deportation of Asylum Seeker