Haiti delegation set to visit Kenya in preparations for Security Support mission

A delegation from Haiti is set to visit Kenya as part of preparations for the Multinational Mission to Support Security (MSS), a UN-approved initiative aimed at tackling rampant gang activities in Haiti. The collaboration was discussed during a meeting in Port-au-Prince on December 5, 2023, between Haitian authorities and a Kenyan delegation.

During the significant working meeting with Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry and government officials, Kenya’s delegation, led by national security advisor Monica Juma and Deputy Inspector General Noor Gabow, addressed the MSS deployment.

Talks also involved representatives from the American administration and members of Haiti’s High Council of the Transition.

A statement from the Prime Minister’s office revealed that a Haitian delegation from the Ministry of Justice and Public Security would reciprocate the visit by traveling to Nairobi.

This exchange aims to finalize preparations before the MSS’s potential deployment to Haiti in February 2024.

The MSS, a peacekeeping mission to counter escalating gang control in Port-au-Prince, received approval from Kenyan Parliament in October, overcoming legal obstacles.

The Kenyan Police Service, known for its peacekeeping expertise, plans to contribute 1,000 officers to lead and operate alongside personnel from other contributing nations.

Despite legal challenges, including a lawsuit by Thirdway Alliance party leader Ekuru Aukot, the deployment enjoys UN backing.

The Kenyan contingent, which includes units with paramilitary training, will oversee operations, distinguishing itself from traditional UN peacekeeping missions.

Kenya’s extensive experience in peacekeeping missions, demonstrated in Namibia, Cambodia, Kosovo, and Darfur, positions it as a key player in the MSS, reinforcing international efforts to restore stability to Haiti amid a dire security situation.