In Jacmel, 35 people have been trained in construction, 65% of whom are women

The French Embassy is funding training in construction techniques in Jacmel, which brought together 35 participants. Women account for 65% of them, according to a statement from the diplomatic mission. The project is led by the Association of Construction Technicians (ATECO) and benefits from the Team France Fund (FEF). It aims to open technical trades to women in a sector that is still very male-dominated. It is also intended to provide them with professional skills and new sources of income.

What the participants learned

The beneficiaries took several courses related to building construction, including woodworking. Sœurette Toussaint, a technician, is now working on a construction site in Jacmel. She believes this training has transformed her situation: "I can say that this work has improved my living conditions economically. Thanks to this trade learned through this project, we have become financially independent."

Another participant, Rosita, trained in woodworking. She plans to start a business with other beneficiaries to offer their services in this sector.

The message from French diplomacy

Laurent Clavel, counselor for cooperation and cultural action at the embassy, sees this initiative as proof of France's commitment to women's rights. "This project illustrates France's vision of feminist diplomacy in Haiti," he declared.

He also advocated for technical trades to be opened to women without distinction or prejudice: "By opening construction trades and technical fields to these women, we are demonstrating that the transition to more inclusive societies requires valuing all talent, without stereotypes or exclusion."

Through the Team France Fund, the embassy supports Haitian organizations committed to women's rights. The program particularly supports their initiatives for economic autonomy.

A planned expansion

The president of ATECO, Jonas Milien, hopes to extend the project to other regions of the country so that more women can access construction trades. In Jacmel, the first beneficiaries are already putting their new skills into practice, and their presence on construction sites is challenging old prejudices.