A new contingent of 200 Kenyan police officers arrived in Haiti on Thursday, February 6, 2025, as part of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM).
This mission aims to assist Haitian security forces in their fight against escalating violence caused by armed gangs, particularly the criminal coalition “Viv Ansanm,” which has been terrorizing the population.
The security situation in Haiti is becoming increasingly concerning, with gang violence intensifying and spreading fear across multiple regions of the country. The deployment of Kenyan police officers is part of a broader international initiative to strengthen local security forces. With this new deployment, the total number of Kenyan police officers involved in the mission now reaches 800, with the ultimate goal of 1,000 officers.
These officers will have several key responsibilities: combating gangs, enhancing local law enforcement capabilities, and closely collaborating with Haitian authorities to restore order. The objective is to ensure long-term stability and reduce the influence of criminal groups that block access to essential services and disrupt the daily lives of Haitian citizens.
The Kenyan government has responded positively to international calls for support in addressing Haiti’s security crisis, providing both expertise and personnel. This reinforcement is particularly crucial given that Haitian security forces, despite their dedication, lack the necessary resources to effectively counter gang violence.
Three helicopters were also transported to Haiti on Thursday via an Antonov cargo plane to enhance the operational capacity of the multinational mission. These aircraft, piloted by Salvadoran military personnel, will serve as a strategic asset in ongoing security operations. Their arrival is expected to improve the responsiveness of multinational forces in the areas most affected by violence.
International support for Haiti extends beyond the deployment of police officers and military equipment. It is part of a broader global effort to stabilize the country and restore law and order. In coordination with Haitian authorities, international forces will contribute to dismantling gangs and training local police officers, ensuring lasting peace.
The deployment of this Kenyan police contingent marks a significant step in the mission to restore security in Haiti. Given the scale of the crisis, this international support strengthens the Haitian government’s efforts to curb insecurity and give citizens hope for a more stable future.