New Marketplace To Revitalize, Stabilize Fragile Haitian Community

 Port-au-Prince, Haiti - Together with Haitian President Michel Martelly, the U.S. government inaugurated the Savane Pistache market in Haiti that will support local merchants and promote stability in the community.

The neighborhood of Savane Pistache, in Carrefour-Feuilles, Port-au-Prince, is a densely populated area with high levels of unemployment. The 5,000 square-meter Savane Pistache Market will benefit the market's 300 vendors and the 25,000 residents of the community by attracting more commerce.

The U.S. government, through the U.S. Agency for International Development, partnered with CHF International and the local community to build the market. After the inauguration, the municipality of Port-au-Prince and the association of local vendors will assume management responsibilities.

"We were pleased to partner with local government and community leaders to rebuild the market," said U.S. Ambassador to Haiti Kenneth H. Merten. "We are committed to work with Haiti to find innovative and sustainable ways to rebuild the country."

The multi-level structure is handicap accessible and includes restroom and shower facilities. Environment-friendly features include a roof system that collects rainwater and stores it in a 10,000 gallon reservoir. The market will also benefit from the United Nations Development Program's recycling and compost project.

Bright, primary colors adorn the market's 15 pavilions and rich frescoes painted by local artists flank the walkways and interior walls. During the market's inauguration, the judges awarded prizes to the artists who painted the best frescoes.