President William Ruto has reassured the public regarding concerns over delayed salaries for Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti.
Speaking at State House, on October 11, Ruto confirmed that the mission has sufficient funds to support the officers until March 2024.
However, he urged international donors, who had committed to backing the mission, to fulfill their pledges, notably to support logistical needs and other resources.
The Kenyan mission in Haiti is scheduled to continue until October 2025. Ruto emphasized the importance of international collaboration, noting that countries like the United States had promised to contribute transport and equipment necessary for the officers' peacekeeping efforts in Haiti.
During the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Ruto met with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, who committed to enhancing these capabilities.
Ruto highlighted the progress made by the Kenyan forces in Haiti, including reopening schools and helping restore order in the country, which has been struggling with violence since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021.
He praised the bravery of the Haitian people and the role Kenyan officers have played in securing critical infrastructure, including airports and administrative centers.
Haiti's Prime Minister, Dr. Garry Conille, commended the Kenyan officers for their professionalism and effectiveness in tackling gang violence and securing vital areas. He witnessed their impact during nighttime patrols.
President William Ruto also announced that an additional 600 Kenyan police officers are undergoing pre-deployment training and will soon be ready for duty in Haiti.
During the joint press briefing at State House, Nairobi, with Haiti’s Prime Minister Garry Conille, Ruto noted that the first group of Kenyan officers was deployed to Haiti on June 24, 2024, with a second contingent following soon after. This has brought the total number of officers in Haiti to nearly 400.
Ruto emphasized that the mission is already yielding positive results, providing hope and contributing to the restoration of stability in Haiti. Kenya is at the forefront of the international response to Haiti’s urgent plea for assistance in restoring safety and security.
On October 2, 2023, the United Nations Security Council authorized the deployment of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission to Haiti.
Kenyan officers are collaborating with the Haitian National Police to reestablish order, safeguard key infrastructure, and create safe environments for Haitian citizens.
Ruto highlighted the recapture of important sites such as the general hospital, the port, and the National Palace, which he described as a significant improvement from the previous state of uncertainty.