This deployment is part of the ongoing Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) aimed at restoring order in Haiti, which is currently plagued by rampant gang violence.
Reception and Key Figures
The Kenyan officers were greeted by a high-profile delegation that included:
- Fritz Alphonse Jean – Presidential Advisor
- Alix Didier Fils-Aimé – Prime Minister
- Patrick Pélissier – Minister of Justice and Public Security
- Mario Andrésol – Secretary of State for Public Security
- Normil Rameau – Haitian Police Director General
- Godfrey Otunge – MSS Force Commander
- Dennis B. Hankins – U.S. Ambassador
- André François Giroux – Canadian Ambassador
Leading the Kenyan delegation were:
- Joseph Boinet – Deputy National Security Advisor
- Gilbert Masengeli – DIG-Administration Police Service
- Ranson Lolmodooni – SAIG Commandant, General Service Unit
Statements and Commitments
Joseph Boinet expressed gratitude towards the Haitian government for its support and announced plans to establish a Kenyan consulate in Haiti to strengthen bilateral relations. He emphasized Kenya’s commitment to aiding Haiti in regaining stability. Gilbert Masengeli, speaking on behalf of Kenya’s Inspector General of Police, highlighted the importance of maintaining high standards of conduct among MSS personnel and reiterated Kenya’s dedication to supporting Haiti’s security efforts.Prime Minister Fils-Aimé praised Kenya’s contributions, stating that the new deployment underscores a collective determination to combat armed gangs and restore state authority. He announced a “war corrective budget” aimed at enhancing security measures.
Context and Challenges
The MSS mission has faced significant challenges, including funding shortages and operational difficulties. Currently, criminal gangs control approximately 85% of Port-au-Prince, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis with over a million people displaced due to violence. The recent deployment brings the total number of Kenyan personnel in Haiti to over 600, but this remains far short of the planned 2,500 officers needed to effectively address the situation. Despite these obstacles, both Kenyan officials and Haitian leaders express optimism regarding the mission’s potential impact on restoring peace and security in Haiti.
