"We are pleased to resume all activities and be at the service of the public once again. The decision to suspend activities was difficult, given the vital role of this hospital in meeting medical needs in Port-au-Prince. But the decision to re-open was difficult as well because there is no place for violence or weapons inside a medical facility. What happened in July is absolutely unacceptable. We will not be able to work unless the patients and health professionals are respected,” said Mumuza Muhindo, MSF Head of Mission.
Adding "MSF is committed to Haiti and its people; That is why we continue to have discussions with all stakeholders and armed groups, including law enforcement forces, to ensure that the conditions allow us to continue our services and work safely in Tabarre. Our message to everyone carrying a weapon in Haiti is clear—that respect for health facilities, patients, and staff is non-negotiable. The survival of the Tabarre hospital will depend on everyone abiding by this."
Let's remember that MSF has been working in Haiti since the early 1990s and has been one of the main players in the response during acute crises such as the 2010 earthquake and the cholera epidemic from 2010. Its current activities in Haiti cover trauma and medical emergencies, burns, sexual violence, mother and child care and general consultations.
