Kenya and Haiti formalized an agreement on Friday regarding the deployment of 1,000 police officers to the Multi-National Security Support Mission aimed at aiding the Caribbean nation.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by President William Ruto and Haiti’s Prime Minister Ariel Henry, took place at State House Nairobi.
This milestone follows the adoption of Resolution 2699 by the United Nations Security Council on October 2, 2023, which sanctioned a multinational security support mission to Haiti.
Kenya assumed the responsibility of leading the coordination efforts for this international mission following requests from member states.
President Ruto highlighted the procedural groundwork undertaken in preparation for the mission, including authorization procedures and the formulation of essential mission documents such as the concept of operations, conduct and discipline policy, status protection agreement, and directives regarding detention, searches, and the use of force.
President Ruto also underscored extensive engagements with member states to translate global solidarity into tangible support for the Multinational Security Support Mission.
Notably, on October 13, 2023, both the National Security Council and Cabinet approved the deployment of 1,000 police officers. Subsequently, on November 16, 2023, Parliament unanimously endorsed this deployment.
President Ruto further acknowledged legal procedures, including a court petition, which underscored the necessity for a reciprocal instrument between Kenya and Haiti to facilitate the deployment process.
Expressing satisfaction, he informed that Prime Minister Ariel Henri and he personally witnessed the signing of this instrumental agreement, while also deliberating on expediting subsequent steps for deployment.
Emphasizing Kenya’s unwavering commitment to the success of the multinational mission, President Ruto articulated the historic significance of fostering peace in Haiti for global well-being.
This commitment was evidenced earlier in July 2023 when Kenya pledged to provide 1,000 police officers in response to Haiti’s plea for international assistance amid escalating security challenges attributed to gangs.
The situation in Haiti remains dire, with approximately 200,000 Haitians displaced due to escalating violence perpetrated by armed gangs, resulting in indiscriminate killings, kidnappings, gang rapes, and property destruction.
The humanitarian crisis has left millions facing hunger, exacerbated by gang violence and insecurity. Notably, armed clashes occurred on February 29, coinciding with Prime Minister Henry’s visit to Kenya for discussions regarding the deployment.
The formal agreement between Kenya and Haiti signifies a significant step forward in addressing Haiti’s security challenges, underscoring Kenya’s commitment to global peace and stability.
