The Papaye Peasant Movement” (MPP), a Frères des Hommes’ partner association runs two lakes : Lake Orobe and Lake Bassin Bœuf. These lakes are used for the irrigation of banana, sugar cane, cabbage, pepper and potato plantations so that farmers can enjoy the benefits of rainfall over a longer period of time.

Most of the harvests from these community gardens are equitably distributed between the families and the surplus is sold in markets. The money from the sales is deposited in a savings account which is used to advance low-interest micro-credit to families looking to finance farm projects, such as the purchase of machines, tools or livestock. These lakes also play a key role in maintaining the region’s biodiversity. The water attracts birds that help preserve crops by eating insects. When the water level of the lakes falls in spring, peasants can fish, and thus improve their food. Peasants who take part in the movement are able to implement innovative farming practices that are both adapted to Haiti’s small holdings and environment-friendly.

The hill reservoirs hold between 10,000 and 60,000 hectares of water.

Find out more about the action programme co-implemented by Frères des Hommes and the Papaye Peasant Movement:
Haiti - Family agriculture on the High Central Plateau