Kenya placed its Haiti peace keeping officers at the center of this year’s Jamhuri Day celebrations, turning the national holiday into a powerful tribute to the team that returned home only days ago after an intense 18 month assignment abroad.
The officers, who formed the first group to serve under the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, were welcomed with loud cheers as they marched into the Nyayo Stadium arena on Friday, December 12, during the country’s 62nd Jamhuri Day event.
The team arrived back in Kenya on December 9 after completing their work in Haiti, where they were involved in major operations that helped reclaim the national airport, learning institutions, health centers and other key installations from violent gangs.
Their return was followed by a warm reception and breakfast hosted by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen at the Administrative Police Training College in Embakasi on December 10.
Kenyan officers from Haiti marching at Nyayo Stadium during Jamuhuri Day on December 12, 2025.PHOTO/HANDOUTCrowds rose to their feet when the officers entered the stadium, forming one of the most emotional moments of the national celebrations. They marched with three flags; the green police flag, the Kenya Police Service flag and the Administration Police Service flag — symbolising the unity of the security forces that worked together in the Caribbean nation.
Their procession was slotted between GSU officers and Border Patrol officers, but the cheers that met the Haiti team made it clear that they were the highlight of the parade.
President William Ruto stood to applaud them as they passed the presidential dais, with the officers pausing briefly to salute him in a coordinated march.
The stadium erupted once more as Kenyans honoured not only the returning team but also the three officers who died during operations to suppress the Haitian gangs. The fallen officers were remembered as heroes whose sacrifice allowed their colleagues to complete the mission.
Even as the country celebrated those who had come home, another contingent of 230 officers was already on its way to Haiti, having been deployed on December 8 to continue the work of stabilising key areas and extending the gains made by the outgoing team.
The returning officers, who had already been publicly recognised at their Embakasi reception, appeared deeply moved by the appreciation shown during the Jamhuri Day parade.
Many in the crowd waved small flags while others shouted words of gratitude, marking a moment that blended national pride with relief and respect for the officers’ service far from home.
Their recognition reflected Kenya’s continued role on the international stage, as well as the determination to honour security personnel who take on challenging assignments outside the country.
For many Kenyans, the parade served as an emotional reminder of the risks and dedication involved in peace support missions.
