Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo recently reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to supporting its officers deployed in Haiti as part of a Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. Speaking on Citizen TV, Omollo emphasized the government’s dedication to backing its police officers, who are working to help restore stability in Haiti, which has been struggling with political instability and gang violence.
Omollo addressed concerns about the United States possibly withdrawing its support for the mission. He reassured the public that the Kenyan government is fully prepared to continue supporting the mission, regardless of any changes in international backing. “We are ready for whatever scenario that plays out,” he said.
There had been reports suggesting that nearly 20 Kenyan officers had resigned due to unpaid wages and poor working conditions. However, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja clarified that all officers had been compensated through the end of October. Omollo further explained that the United Nations manages a fund where contributions from countries outside the U.S. are collected to sustain the mission, helping cover costs and resources needed.
The Principal Secretary also highlighted the importance of providing the necessary logistical support, training, and equipment to ensure the safety of Kenyan officers and the success of the mission. These efforts are crucial not only for the officers’ well-being but also for achieving the mission’s goals in Haiti, which include supporting the Haitian National Police and restoring order to the country.
Currently, the MSS mission is under-resourced, with only about 430 officers deployed, mainly from Kenya, alongside contributions from the Bahamas, Belize, and Jamaica. Kenya has also pledged to send an additional 600 troops to strengthen the mission’s impact.