The third contingent of over 200 Kenyan police officers arrived in Haiti on Saturday to support the United Nations-backed peacekeeping mission aimed at combating the violent gangs that have plagued the Caribbean nation.
The 217 officers were welcomed by Haitian President Fritz Alphonse Jean and senior government officials.
This new group will join the first and second contingents, bringing the total number of Kenyan officers deployed in Haiti to 400.
The Kenyan police officers are part of a larger international effort to assist the Haitian National Police in addressing gang violence and strengthening the country’s security infrastructure.
The elite officers, drawn from various units of the National Police Service (NPS), have been tasked with protecting civilians, maintaining public order, and helping reform and enhance local law enforcement agencies.
Their duties will include patrolling, community policing, and training Haitian law enforcement personnel.
The Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) in Haiti, authorized by the UN Security Council under Resolution 2699 on October 2, 2023, aims to assist the Haitian National Police in its battle against gang violence and to restore stability to the nation.
Alongside Kenyan officers, personnel from Jamaica, Guatemala, El Salvador, the Bahamas, and Belize are also part of the mission.
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen praised the Kenya-led mission’s progress in reducing gang violence and its global recognition, including from both the outgoing and incoming U.S. administrations.
“Our commitment to this historic mission is unwavering, and we will continue to mobilize all necessary international support to ensure its success,” Murkomen stated.
President William Ruto expressed confidence in the mission’s potential to bring lasting peace to Haiti, highlighting that the officers chosen for the task were selected for their integrity, professionalism, and ability to effectively contribute to peace efforts.
Since its deployment, the Kenyan-led mission has made significant strides in stabilizing various regions of Haiti.
President Ruto noted that many Haitian citizens have shown deep respect for the professionalism and dedication of the Kenyan officers.
Despite the ongoing challenges, the mission has helped strengthen local law enforcement, fostered better community relations, and contributed to a reduction in violent crime in some areas.
“The officers have successfully carried out operations in difficult and hazardous environments to protect the citizens,” said Deputy Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli.
