April 13, 2025
On Thursday, February 6, 2025, Haiti welcomed a new contingent of 200 Kenyan police officers, bringing the total number of Kenyan forces deployed in the country to 800. These reinforcements are part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, an international initiative aimed at assisting Haitian authorities in combating armed gangs operating across the country.
The MSS, led by Kenya, plans a total deployment of 1,000 Kenyan police officers in Haiti. It also includes contingents from other nations, notably Guatemalan and Salvadoran military police, who have joined efforts to stabilize the country. This international coalition works closely with the Haitian National Police (HNP) to restore security and public order.
Despite ongoing challenges, such as the control of large areas of Port-au-Prince by armed gangs, the MSS has intensified operations to support the HNP. Joint patrols and targeted operations have been conducted to regain control of areas affected by violence. However, the mission faces funding and resource constraints, which limit its effectiveness on the ground.
The continuous deployment of international forces, with a particular focus on Kenyan support, reflects the international community’s commitment to helping Haiti overcome its security challenges. Collaboration between the deployed forces and the HNP is crucial to restoring stability and ensuring that Haitian citizens can live in safety.
