Gender Analysis – Gender-Responsive Civil Works

The project's objective is to modernize the existing Cap Haïtien Port infrastructure, services, and operations to provide regionally competitive port services and increase trade at the port through USAID-supported activities. The gender analysis is a critical first step in successfully rehabilitating the port. The research methodology involved a literature review, key informant interviews with 38 stakeholders in Port-au-Prince and Cap Haïtien, and focus group discussions with students, APN employees, and community members. The team consulted government stakeholders, civil society organizations, technical schools, and secondary schools to identify key gender-related needs, interests, issues, constraints, and opportunities in rehabilitating and improving the port. Key findings from the gender analysis include the need to address gender-based differences and disparities in the civil works component. The research team identified that women are underrepresented in the technical areas of competency required for the civil works, and that there are security risks for students studying in the area adjacent to the port. The team also found that women APN employees face physical attributes of the port that could potentially render them more vulnerable to gender-based violence. The research team provided recommendations for developing appropriate interventions to offset existing gender-based differences and disparities. For USAID, the recommendations include developing a gender-responsive civil works hiring plan, providing training and capacity-building for APN staff, and supporting the development of a gender-sensitive port master plan. For the National Port Authority, the recommendations include implementing a gender-responsive civil works conditions plan, providing a safe and secure working environment for women employees, and engaging with the community to address security risks. The gender analysis also identified the need for community engagement and safety and security in the area adjacent to the port. The research team recommended that the National Port Authority engage with the community to address security risks and provide a safe and secure working environment for women employees. The team also recommended that USAID support the development of a community engagement plan to address security risks and promote gender equality. The USAID/Haiti Gender Analysis for the Cap Haïtien Port Project - Civil Works Component provides a comprehensive analysis of the gender-related needs, interests, issues, constraints, and opportunities in rehabilitating and improving the port. The research team's recommendations provide a framework for developing appropriate interventions to offset existing gender-based differences and disparities and promote gender equality in the civil works component.