Port-de-Paix summer fest: Where soccer meets culture in Haiti’s northwest

PORT-DE-PAIX—Each summer, the Northwest Department of Haiti hosts one of the region’s most anticipated celebrations in Port-de-Paix, the vibrant coastal capital city. The celebration integrates sports with cultural activities such as soccer, music, dance, food, and drinks. 

This year was no exception, as thousands of residents and numerous entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds gathered jubilantly from July 7 to September 22 at the Capois La Mort Sports Complex to enjoy themselves. Local music and dance groups performed every afternoon, complementing the soccer matches and creating a festive atmosphere.

“Our goal in organizing this competition was to blend football [soccer] with culture. By creating a vibrant atmosphere, we aim to attract the public and provide a platform for local artists to perform, ensuring fans are satisfied when they come to watch the matches,” Mérilia Chérisma, president of the Port-de-Paix Football League (LFP), said.

The LFP has been organizing the signature event in partnership with local organizations and businesses for three consecutive years.

“Football is a boon for our department,” Chérisma said. 

“It serves as a therapeutic medicine for our youth and society. Previously, there were not enough activities for young people in the region. Providing access to all children, accompanied by their parents, ensured the activity was inclusive and incident-free. I commend the Haitian National Police (PNH) for securing the event,” she rejoiced.

“We aim to elevate football in the Northwest Department to help young people avoid the pitfalls of alcohol and delinquency. We want them to play soccer purposefully, not join gangs like in other areas in the country,” said Nikel Jean, secretary of the regional soccer league.

Fostering hope through sports in a peaceful Port-de-Paix

The league’s leaders want the local youth to choose soccer over gang involvement and avoid crimes. They believe organizing sports and cultural activities for young people can guide them positively, enhance their national values, and offer them international opportunities.

Contrasting with Port-au-Prince, where gang violence disrupts daily life, the coastal town of Port-de-Paix remains an enclave of peace. Residents engage in sports and cultural activities, making the most of their summer. While gang activity has led to the closure of leisure spaces in the Haitian capital, Port-de-Paix thrives with vibrant holidays, different sports championships, and other recreational events.

One of the summer’s highlights was the “Interzone of the Northwest” football competition, organized by the LFP. At its 3rd edition, the tournament featured 20 teams from various zones, including FC T. Moto from Bassin Bleu commune, FC La Baie, FC Dorcas from La Coupe, FC Beauchamp, and the eventual champions FC Kriminal from Sous-Kanal. The sporting and cultural mix event ran from the first week of July to the third week of September, providing residents with an exciting and safe leisure environment.

High school student Sherlandie Jean-Baptiste reflected on her unforgettable summer, saying, “I had an extraordinary summer vacation, enjoying football matches and shows at the Capois La Mort Sports Complex. I will return to school in October with fond memories of a heavenly summer.”

The need to enhance sports infrastructure

Despite the competition’s success, the LFP committee recognizes the need for improvements at Capois La Mort Sports Complex. Ilrick Augustave, the activities management committee administrator, outlined plans for upgrades, including rebuilding the locker and changing rooms and seating booths for teams, expanding stands, and adding toilets, irrigation, and electrification systems.

“In the 21st century, players shouldn’t be sitting on the ground,” Augustave said. 

“We will construct two benches of 14 seats each. Our goal is to develop this park to host international matches.”

LFP’s secretary, Jean, added “We will also build a basketball court and facilities for other sports, ensuring comprehensive sporting opportunities for the youth and fans.”

Challenges and community support

The absence of Haitian Football Federation (FHF) officials during the event was very notable to local officials and residents alike. Many were very critical of the country’s soccer governing body.  

“Our funding comes solely from local sponsors and the public,” Chérisma said. “I urge those from the northwest, both in Haiti and the diaspora, to support the LFP.”

The Ministry of Youth, Sports, and Civic Action’s departmental director, Walken Joseph, praised the competition’s impact. “Such large-scale events contribute significantly to football development. I commend the league’s efforts, although they must work with the FHF and Ministry of Social Affairs for official certification and greater support.”

Looking ahead, Chérisma announced plans for future competitions, including the Imma Copa in December, the Naval Copa in February, and the Flag Day Cup in May in partnership with Akajou Promo, a local organization promoting sociocultural and educational activities.

For many participants, Port-de-Paix remains a beacon of peace and community spirit amid Haiti’s challenges. Enaude Michel, a former Port-au-Prince resident who has moved to the city due to escalating gang violence, noted:

“I found peace here. Unlike the capital of Port-au-Prince, there are no kidnappings, and activities are thriving. People move freely, enjoying life.”

The post Port-de-Paix summer fest: Where soccer meets culture in Haiti’s northwest appeared first on The Haitian Times.

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Port-de-Paix summer fest: Where soccer meets culture in Haiti’s northwest was first posted on September 25, 2024 at 12:41 pm.