By Andrea M. White
January 15, 2007
Always known for his commitment to Haiti and its people, whether in song, speech or politics, Wyclef has fought to keep the awareness of the Haitian crisis within reach. Because of his pledge to his native home, Wyclef has been named Roving Ambassador of Haiti, where he will promote development and represent his homeland at world events.
Haiti’s president Rene Preval, who won office last year, felt that this was a good appointment for the country and believes that Wyclef’s presence will boost awareness and hopefully change the face of the impoverished country, which is still rebuilding from the rebellion in 2004. The hope for Haiti is to bring investors and tourists back to the country.
Wyclef was born and raised in Croix-des-Bouquets in Haiti until he was 9 years old, when his family moved to Brooklyn, New York. His notoriety came as one of the stars of the rap trio The Fugees, and later on as a solo artist and producer. Amidst the drama and one of hip hop’s worst disasters –the breakup of the Fugees along with other personal conflicts, Wyclef still continued to fight for peace and recognition of what was going on in his homeland. He started an aid foundation, Yele Haiti, and is often seen wearing the country’s flag.
The hip-hop icon has also campaigned successfully for Congress to pass a trade bill that would help the textile industry in Haiti, which is the poorest country in the hemisphere. There has even been speculation he has been talked of as a potential president.
There is no doubt that this is a great move for Haiti, despite all of the struggles the country has endured. Hopefully Wyclef, with the help of other governments can aid in turning this country around. AMW !.e.
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