NAIROBI, Kenya – In a move to support international peacekeeping efforts, Kenya has successfully deployed its first contingent of police officers to Haiti.
The National Police Service of Kenya announced that the pre-deployment training for the first group of 400 officers was completed, with the initial batch of 200 officers dispatched on June 24, 2024.
The team arrived in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on June 25, 2024, where they immediately began joint operational, logistical, and induction training alongside the Haitian National Police.
During the official welcome at their basecamp, Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille expressed his steadfast support for the Kenyan team, emphasizing the importance of their mission in restoring order.
“We are grateful for the Kenyan team’s presence and are confident that their efforts will help control the gang-related violence that has plagued our country,” he stated.
In a security briefing to the UN Security Council, Prime Minister Conille advocated for the deployment of additional Kenyan officers, showing confidence in their ability to manage and reduce gang activities in Haiti.
The UN’s Special Representative and Head of the Integrated Office in Haiti, Maria Isabel Salvador, also praised Kenya for leading the mission.
“Kenya’s commitment to leading this mission is commendable,” she said. “We urge the international community to support this initiative financially, ensuring its success and sustainability.”
The Inspector General of the National Police Service, Japhet Koome, extended gratitude to the people of Haiti for their warm reception and support of the Kenyan officers.
“The National Police Service remains committed to discharging its national and international duties with utmost respect for the rule of law,” he affirmed.
