President William Ruto has called on the international community to provide essential resources to support the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti.
Speaking in Port-au-Prince on Saturday, where he met with police officers involved in the mission, President Ruto emphasized that personnel, equipment, and logistics support are critical to achieving the mission’s goal of restoring peace and stability in Haiti.
The President also held discussions with President Edgard Le Leblanc of the Transitional Presidential Council, affirming Kenya’s commitment to ensuring the mission’s success.
“I came here to assess your progress and to rally the support of our friends and partners at the United Nations General Assembly, so you receive the necessary resources to accomplish your mission,” Ruto said.
He stressed that the international community must focus on Haiti’s needs, adding that Kenya, as the lead nation, would advocate for swift action to implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 2699.
President Ruto commended the mission, led by Force Commander Godfrey Otunge, for its tangible progress in stabilizing the country, stating that the U.N.-backed mission had rekindled hope among the Haitian people. He urged Haitian leaders, civil society, and the private sector to seize the opportunity created by the improved security to drive forward meaningful change.
“The Mission is here to create a safe environment where Haitians can reclaim their nation’s security and chart their own future,” he said.
The President praised the Kenyan officers for securing critical infrastructure and restoring peace in previously unstable regions, which has bolstered the confidence of other stakeholders.
“Many doubted the feasibility of stabilizing Haiti, but today, minds have changed thanks to the progress you’ve made,” Ruto noted.
He also lauded Haiti’s political leadership and the Haitian National Police for their cooperation, acknowledging the efforts of President Le Leblanc, Prime Minister Cornille, and his Cabinet in guiding the process.
Kenya, Ruto said, is prepared to offer additional support to accelerate Haiti’s path to peace and stability. He revealed that 600 more Kenyan officers are undergoing redeployment training and will soon be mission-ready, with nearly 400 officers already on the ground.
Addressing skepticism surrounding Kenya’s involvement in Haiti, President Ruto stood firm in his belief that sending Kenyan officers was the right decision, demonstrating the country’s commitment to international peace and security.
“Our leadership in this mission is rooted in our belief in Pan-Africanism. We share Haiti’s aspirations for freedom and self-determination,” he said, expressing confidence that the mission will overcome challenges.
He highlighted Kenya’s extensive peacekeeping experience, having participated in 46 missions globally, and pledged to stand with Haiti in demanding an end to its history of neglect, exploitation, and underinvestment.
“It is our shared duty to demand better for Haiti,” Ruto concluded.