Port-au-Prince, Haiti – A new contingent of Kenyan police officers, numbering 230, has arrived in Haiti to reinforce the international security mission aimed at restoring stability to the troubled Caribbean nation. The deployment, announced by the Kenyan government on Tuesday, marks the fifth rotation of officers since Nairobi assumed leadership of the multinational force last year.
The officers were greeted at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince on Monday evening. General Godfrey Otunge, commander of the anti-gang force, stated that this deployment underscores Kenya’s unwavering commitment to Haiti. “Kenya will stand with Haiti for as long as it takes until peace prevails,” he affirmed.
This reinforcement follows the expansion of the force’s mandate on October 3rd, granting it additional powers, including reopening roads, securing humanitarian corridors, apprehending suspects, and supporting the struggling Haitian National Police in their efforts to control armed groups dominating large swathes of the capital.
Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council President, Franck Laurent Sanseur, welcomed the arrival of the Kenyan force, hailing it as crucial support for the anticipated 2026 elections. He noted that the ongoing violence continues to disrupt essential services and displace thousands of residents.
Nairobi has confirmed that further deployments of its forces will join the mission in the coming weeks, as part of a phased deployment plan coordinated with the United Nations and international partners. Despite facing domestic legal and political challenges, the Kenyan government has spearheaded this vital mission since 2024.
DZWatch News will continue to provide updates on the situation in Haiti as it develops.
