The third contingent of over 200 Kenyan police officers arrived in Haiti on Saturday as part of the United Nations-backed peacekeeping mission aimed at combating the violent gangs that have overrun parts of the troubled Caribbean nation.
The officers were welcomed by Haitian President Fritz Alphonse Jean and other senior government officials.
This group of 217 officers will join the first and second contingents, which together total 400 officers, deployed last year to help restore stability.
The Kenyan police are part of a broader effort to support the Haitian National Police in its fight against gang violence and to help strengthen 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 assisting in the reform and enhancement of regional law enforcement agencies.
Their duties will include patrolling, community policing, and training and mentoring Haitian law enforcement personnel.
The Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) in Haiti was authorized by the UN Security Council on October 2, 2023, under Resolution 2699, to help the Haitian National Police tackle gang violence and restore peace.
In addition to the Kenyan officers, personnel from Jamaica, Guatemala, El Salvador, the Bahamas, and Belize are also part of the mission.
Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen, while flagging off the new contingent, praised the Kenya-led mission for its significant progress in reducing gang violence, noting that it has earned global recognition, including from both the outgoing and incoming U.S. administrations.
Security CS Kipchuma Murkomen bidding the officers goodbye.
“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 has expressed confidence in the mission’s ability to bring lasting peace to Haiti, emphasizing that the officers selected for the task were chosen for their integrity, professionalism, and ability to contribute effectively to the peace efforts.
Since its deployment, the Kenyan-led mission has made notable strides in stabilizing various regions of Haiti.
President Ruto noted that many Haitian citizens have shown deep respect for the Kenyan officers’ professionalism and dedication to their duties.
Despite the challenges, the mission has bolstered local law enforcement capabilities, improved 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.
