PORT-AU-PRINCE, Haiti – Kenyan police officers stationed in Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission have warmed hearts back home by sharing greetings and updates with their families.
In a series of videos shared on social media, the officers expressed gratitude, shared personal updates, and reassured their loved ones of their safety while on the mission.
Among them were Nelly Mwihaki and Sheikh Abdi, who conveyed messages highlighting their well-being and asking for continued prayers.
A police officer sends a message to Kenyans and family all the way from Haiti.
The MSS mission, headquartered in Port-au-Prince, is a United Nations-backed initiative aimed at aiding the Haiti National Police (HNP) in restoring peace and order amidst the ongoing threats of gang violence.
Kenya leads this international effort, which includes personnel from countries such as Jamaica, the Bahamas, Belize, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
“Continue praying for us,” Kenyan police officer in Haiti message to family.
With over 600 Kenyan officers already deployed, additional contingents are scheduled to leave for Haiti in February and June 2025.
The current team has been on the mission since June 2024, with their term set to conclude in June 2025.
The Kenyan team’s efforts in Haiti extend beyond security operations.
In a heartwarming video, MSS mission director and spokesperson Jack Ombaka was seen teaching Haitian children the popular Swahili song Jambo Bwana, bridging cultural divides with music.
Ombaka translated the lyrics into French, fostering an environment of unity and mutual understanding.
School kids in Haiti Singing ‘Jambo Kenya’
Kenyan Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted the progress made by the MSS mission, citing improved security that has enabled schools and courts to reopen after years of gang-related disruptions.
“The reopening of schools on October 2, 2024, and courts on October 7, 2024, is a testament to the improved security conditions, despite the ongoing threat posed by gangs,” Murkomen noted.
He praised the collaborative efforts between the MSS team and Haiti’s National Police, which have led to significant crackdowns on criminal networks, including the seizure of drugs, weapons, and ammunition.
Community outreach programs have also fostered trust between security forces and civilians, with a strong emphasis on protecting children and discouraging gang affiliations.
In support of long-term security, the MSS mission has been instrumental in training Haiti’s next generation of law enforcers.
A fast-tracked training program for 747 police cadets began on August 27, 2024, and concluded successfully on January 10, 2025.
This initiative aims to bolster the capabilities of the Haiti National Police in tackling crime and maintaining law and order.
