Côtes-de-Fer (Kreyòl: Kòt Defè) is a commune located in the Bainet Borough of the Haiti's Southeast Department. It is the westernmost commune of the department, bordered by mountains and the Caribbean Sea. Known for its fertile land, coastal scenery, and rural character, the commune is primarily sustained by agriculture, fishing, and small-scale commerce. According to the 2015 census, Côtes-de-Fer had a population of 49,037 inhabitants.
Location in Haiti
Location in Haiti
Location in Bainet Arrondissement
About[]
Côtes-de-Fer lies on the southeastern coastal section of the Tiburon Peninsula, fronting the Caribbean Sea.
History[]
Indigenous and Colonial Periods[]
Prior to European contact, the region was likely inhabited by the Taíno people, the island’s indigenous population, who sustained themselves through fishing, agriculture, and trade along the southern coastline of Hispaniola. Although no major Taíno archaeological sites have been documented specifically in Côtes-de-Fer, its coastal location and fertile terrain suggest the area would have supported indigenous activity.
During the Spanish colonial period (16th century), the southern part of the island remained largely undeveloped, as the Spanish focused settlement efforts on central and northern regions. By the 17th and 18th centuries, under French colonial control, the area became part of the colony of Saint-Domingue. Though Côtes-de-Fer did not become a major plantation center, it saw the emergence of small agricultural estates—primarily for sugar and coffee—operated by enslaved Africans in more fertile inland areas.
Post-Independence and Rural Organization[]
Following Haiti’s independence in 1804, the plantation system collapsed, and land ownership shifted dramatically. Inhabitants of the region—primarily formerly enslaved people—reorganized the territory into self-sustaining rural communities, practicing subsistence farming, fishing, and local governance long before the area was formally recognized as a commune.
Throughout the 19th century (1800s), Côtes-de-Fer functioned as a traditional rural settlement, with strong community ties rooted in agricultural production, extended family structures, and local autonomy. Over time, as fishermen frequented the coastline to rest after long days at sea, the settlement gradually came to be known as Boucan Pêcheur—a name that reflected both its coastal utility and the rhythms of daily life. But the sea here was no gentle neighbor. With treacherous waves and unpredictable currents, the coastline earned a more ominous nickname among residents and sailors alike: “Côtes de l’Enfer” (“Coasts of Hell”). Despite the danger, the community held fast, and in 1843, the settlement embraced a formal name that captured both its reality and solidarity—Côtes-de-Fer.
Geography[]
Côtes-de-Fer is a coastal commune located at 18.1889° N, 73.0020° W in Haiti’s Southeast Department, covering a total area of 162.03 square kilometers (62.56 square miles). According to IHSI data, about 76% of this area—122.68 square kilometers—is rural, with suburban zones making up 24% (38.85 km²) and urban areas less than 1% (0.5 km²). The landscape combines rugged hills to the north with narrow plains and a coastline defined by rocky inlets and strong Caribbean waves to the south. These natural features have shaped the commune’s fishing traditions and limited harbor development. Côtes-de-Fer is bordered by Petit-Goâve to the north (in the West Department), Bainet to the east, the Caribbean Sea to the south, Aquin to the west (Southern Department), and Miragoâne to the northwest (Nippes Department). Despite its scenic coastal environment and ecological diversity, the commune remains relatively isolated due to limited road infrastructure and ongoing exposure to environmental challenges such as erosion and flooding.
The town’s coastal zone encompasses the urban center along with two communal sections, while the rest of the commune stretches inland. Aside from the relatively flat city area, most of the terrain is hilly. The climate remains generally mild throughout. Côtes-de-Fer currently lacks designated areas for expansion. It is also notable that many young people leave the commune to pursue further education elsewhere, often accompanied by their families relocating as well.
Commune of Côtes-de-Fer Map
Neighborhoods[]
| CDF | Cote de Fer | 49,037 | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| VEE | Ville de Cote de Fer | Urban | 2,447 | ||
| GRG | 1ère Section Gris Gris | Rural | 17,000 | Bac-Bois, Cavalier, Garou, Gris-Gris, Jamais Vu, La Mercie, Marion, Nan Mombin, Plaine-Cote-de-Fer, Plaine-la-Source, Plaine-Marion, Sous Fort, Ti Bidon, Trou Coucou | |
| LBI | 2ème Section La Biche | Rural | 7,769 | Boutin, Chavannes, Corinne, Dos Darion, Flavil, Fond Cabrit, La Source, Mayombé, Plaine Galbi, Pointe Ravine Blanche | |
| BRG | 3ème Section Bras Gauche | Rural | 2,741 | Fond St Joseph, Saint-Joseph | |
| AMZ | 4ème Section Amazones | Rural | 4,079 | Amazones, Georges, La Faille, Mapou, Nan Massier | |
| BBE | 5eme Section Boucan Bélier | Rural | 3,559 | Boucan-Bélier, Gingembre, Grand Boucan, Mare Ramier, Martineau, Nan Dix Huit, Serpentier. | |
| JVU | 6eme Section Jamais Vu | Rural section | 11,442 | Berthold, Boucan Maronne, Boucan Moran, Caditte, Clarette, Corail Lhérisson, Dassa, Dero, Dessources, Galette, Giro, La Brue, Landrin, Nan Maureau, Nan St Clou, Ricot, Sous-Villa, St Clos |
Ville de Côtes-de-Fer
Demographics[]
| Year | Population | +/- |
|---|---|---|
| 1998 | 53,339 | |
| 2003 | 33,577 | -37% |
| 2009 | 44,595 | +25% |
| 2015 | 49,037 | +10% |
Climate[]
Côtes-de-Fer experiences a tropical climate characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The wet season typically runs from April to November, bringing the majority of the annual rainfall, while the dry season spans from December to March. Temperatures remain warm year-round, generally ranging between 24°C (75°F) and 31°C (88°F). The commune’s coastal location moderates temperatures somewhat, with sea breezes providing relief from the heat. Like much of southern Haiti, Côtes-de-Fer is also susceptible to hurricanes and tropical storms during the rainy season, which can impact agriculture and infrastructure.
Economy[]
Côtes-de-Fer’s economy is rooted in agriculture, livestock farming, commerce, gambling, and fishing. Local farmers cultivate staple crops such as maize, cassava, and beans, while animal husbandry also plays a significant role, although this sector lacks formal oversight. Fishing remains a vital source of income and food for many residents. Small markets and informal businesses support daily commerce, with residents often purchasing goods from nearby communes in the Southeast to sell them in larger markets like Port-au-Prince and Les Cayes. Despite limited infrastructure and challenges in market access, the community displays resourcefulness, with many engaging in multiple livelihoods to sustain their households.
Entrance of Côtes-de-Fer, Haiti
Infrastructure[]
Education[]
Côtes-de-Fer, Haiti Public school
Education in Côtes-de-Fer faces significant challenges due to limited infrastructure and resources. The Ministry of National Education is represented locally by a school inspection office. The commune lacks a kindergarten but hosts eleven public primary schools, several private schools, and a Mission School. Secondary education is provided by four schools—two public, one private, and one Mission school. Technical and vocational training is limited to two schools run by the Evangelical Baptist Mission of Southern Haiti (MEBSH), which specifically serve female students. Many families struggle to afford school fees and supplies, affecting enrollment and retention rates, especially beyond the primary level. Despite these obstacles, local initiatives and NGOs work to improve access and quality through scholarships, school supplies, and community learning programs. However, no formal Literacy Center, university, or higher education institution exists in the commune, leading many young people to migrate to larger towns or cities for further studies.
Health[]
Healthcare services in Côtes-de-Fer are limited and often struggle to meet the needs of the population. The Ministry of Public Health has recently established a communal office to oversee health matters locally. Within the commune, six health centers have been identified, each operating with minimal staff capacity. These centers provide basic primary care, maternal health services, and vaccinations; however, access to specialized or emergency care requires travel to larger urban centers. Insufficient infrastructure, medical supplies, and qualified personnel contribute to ongoing challenges in managing common illnesses and maternal-child health. Public health campaigns and NGO support help fill some gaps through preventative care and health education, but overall, the healthcare system remains in need of greater investment to fully meet the community's needs.
Utilities
The commune’s water supply is supported by three rivers, 78 springs, six wells—including four artesian wells—and 34 public taps serving both domestic and service needs. However, access to clean drinking water remains a challenge, particularly in rural areas. There is no formal sewage system, and waste disposal is largely unmanaged, contributing to environmental and public health concerns.
Electricity is irregular and limited in coverage, although the town hall operates an electric motor that supplies power to the urban area. Most households, especially in outlying sections, rely on alternative sources such as solar panels, generators, or kerosene lamps.
Côtes-de-Fer police station
Administration[]
Côtes-de-Fer operates under the administrative framework of the Haitian government, structured as a commune within the Southeast Department. The municipality is governed by a local mayoral office, supported by a communal council responsible for overseeing civil affairs, local development initiatives, and public services. The commune is subdivided into six communal sections, each with its own local administrative agents and representatives who coordinate closely with the central commune authorities.
State presence in Côtes-de-Fer includes local branches of national ministries, such as the Ministry of National Education, which maintains a school inspection office, and the Ministry of Public Health, which recently established a communal office. The commune also houses key administrative and judicial infrastructures, including a police station, a Court of Peace, and a registry office. Public security is overseen by a local police substation. While formal institutional capacity remains modest, governance is bolstered by the active participation of community leaders, churches, and grassroots organizations, which help fill gaps in services and advocate for local development.
Culture[]
Communication
Côtes-de-Fer has seen gradual improvements in telecommunications over recent years, though several gaps remain. During the most recent inventory, the municipality was found to lack formal telephone service, and while postal services were technically available, they operated inconsistently. A local radio station continues to play a key role in providing press and community updates, reinforcing radio as a primary and trusted source of news. Mobile phone coverage is now accessible across much of the commune, with major national carriers offering basic voice and text services. However, internet access remains patchy and often unaffordable, particularly in rural areas. While the digital divide persists, access to mobile technology is steadily expanding, contributing to better connectivity and information flow across the commune.
Organizations[]
Côtes-de-Fer stands out among Southeast municipalities with one of the highest number of organizations. The commune hosts a mix of local grassroots groups, churches, and NGOs that contribute significantly to its social and economic life. Faith-based organizations such as the Evangelical Baptist Mission of Southern Haiti (MEBSH) are particularly active, playing key roles in education and health through schools and vocational training—especially for women. The area is also home to seven grassroots organizations, ten peasant groups, and three women’s associations, all working to address issues such as youth development, agriculture, disaster preparedness, and women’s empowerment. Three political parties maintain local representation. While formal state institutions remain limited, these organizations act as vital support systems and often serve as the primary channels for mobilizing resources and driving community-led progress.
- CMMB (Catholic Medical Mission Board) established the Bishop Joseph M. Sullivan Center for Health, a 30‑bed hospital serving ~50,000 residents with maternal, pediatric, and emergency care—plus an attached guesthouse and volunteer training center .
- CHP (Catholic Health Partners) provided a $2 million challenge grant to CMMB to support the new hospital and ensure long-term funding as part of the CHAMPS partnership.
- Côte-de-Fer Baptist Church / Hope for Kidz School operates a K–10 school, weekly worship services, Bible studies, youth/men’s groups, and women’s programs, serving ~275 students and 87 baptized members.
- FAO Poultry Project, partnering with the Ministry of Agriculture, distributed chickens to women farmers in Côtes‑de‑Fer (and Port‑à‑Piment) to boost food security and livelihoods.
Leisure and Recreation[]
Gaguere at Ville de Côtes-de-Fer
Recreational life in Côtes-de-Fer blends cultural tradition with simple community pleasures, even as formal entertainment options remain limited. The town features a library, two theater halls, and three football (soccer) fields. Local patron saint festivals are deeply rooted in communal identity, bringing neighborhoods together for vibrant celebrations filled with music, dance, food, and faith. A major ongoing focus is the expansion of leisure infrastructure, particularly through the development of a network of sports complexes. These facilities—five of which have already been completed in the Bainet Borough, with twenty more underway—are designed to serve as multipurpose community hubs. Each will include a raised platform for cultural events, team locker rooms, bleachers, recreational areas for children, and secure fencing. This investment in youth spaces aims to provide both physical engagement and social development opportunities, preparing young people for active and connected adult lives.
Côtes-de-Fer, Haiti
Ville de Côtes-de-Fer, Haiti
References[]
Dumenais Desire - Local Guide [1], June 13, 2024
M. Sedrick Désir - Local Guide [2], June 13, 2024
Michael Vedrine