A Spatial Approach to Analyzing Food Insecurity in Haiti's Northwest Department

This study presents a comprehensive analysis of food insecurity in Haiti's Northwest Department, one of the most vulnerable regions in the country. Using the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) and the Inter-American Development Bank's Food Security Framework, the research employs geo-spatial analysis complemented by socioeconomic factors examination. The findings reveal that declining national production has been hampered by inadequate infrastructure and financing, insecurity, and natural disasters, occurring alongside international supply chain disruptions affecting imports and aid revenues.

These factors negatively impact food availability, while supply constraints, mobility restrictions, price shocks, and threats to sustainable income also affect food access. Difficulties accessing clean water and sanitary infrastructure, along with lack of dietary diversity, hinder food utilization. Food stability is not guaranteed due to problems related to the region's natural endowments, lack or poor capacity of irrigation infrastructure, vulnerability to climate shocks, price fluctuations, and insecurity. The study recommends 23 targeted actions to increase access to basic services, promote adequate nutrition, support productive and sustainable agriculture, and increase resilience to shocks and fluctuations inherent in the food ecosystem.