Haiti Boosts Tourist Security Ahead of First Diaspora Fair in Cap-Haïtien

Haiti's Tourism Ministry is moving to strengthen tourist security ahead of the first edition of the Diaspora Fair, scheduled for November 6 and 7, 2026, in Cap-Haïtien, according to HaitiLibre and Vant Bèf Info. On Wednesday, October 21, Tourism Minister Stéphanie Smith met with Aucelie Rock, head of the tourist police (PoliTOUR/Politour), to discuss reinforcing security in the North and at Cap-Haïtien's international airport. The outlets report that priority measures include an immediate increase in PoliTOUR presence at the airport, coordinated with the National Airport Authority (AAN) and airport security services, to help receive and guide visitors. A permanent PoliTOUR detachment at the Tourism Ministry's headquarters is also under consideration. Beyond the fair, the ministry intends to support the unit's territorial expansion, notably in the Grand Sud and the Nord-Est, improve agents' equipment and uniforms, and recruit 50 additional officers. Vant Bèf Info noted that no implementation timeline was specified. The fair, initiated by the Ministry of Haitians Living Abroad (MHAVE) with the ministries of Culture and Tourism under the Prime Minister's patronage, aims to showcase Haitian culture, talent and economic opportunities and to strengthen ties between the diaspora and local communities. Smith previously held a planning session with MHAVE Minister Katia Verdier that involved the Haitian National Police, Cap-Haïtien's city hall, customs and public works.