Kenyan police conclude UN peace mission, 215 return after 10 months in Haiti

A group of 215 Kenyan police officers has returned home after completing their deployment in Haiti under a United Nations-backed security initiative.

The contingent was welcomed by top government and security officials in a ceremony acknowledging their role in restoring public order and protecting civilians in the Caribbean nation.

The officers were part of a broader international mission aimed at stabilising Haiti amid growing insecurity and escalating gang violence.

Kenya has played a leading role in this effort, supporting the Haitian National Police in maintaining security and protecting key infrastructure.

According to the Ministry of Interior, the officers were deployed “to support efforts to stabilize Haiti and assist the Haitian National Police in restoring public order in areas affected by insecurity.”

The initial deployment began on June 25, 2024, when about 400 officers arrived in Port-au-Prince as part of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission. Subsequent contingents, including the recently returned group, reinforced ongoing operations.

The UN-approved mission, greenlighted in October 2023, was designed to assist Haiti in confronting rising armed gang activity, which had overwhelmed local police forces. The Kenyan officers’ responsibilities included protecting civilians, securing vital infrastructure such as airports, ports, and government offices, and supporting local policing efforts.

Different contingents served for varying periods depending on operational needs. The first group served for about a year, while some later deployments lasted up to 18 months. Over time, Kenya contributed hundreds of officers in phases, reflecting its commitment to international peacekeeping and global security cooperation.

The mission also aimed to stabilise Haiti following years of political turmoil, including the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, which exacerbated insecurity. Kenyan officers worked alongside international partners within the MSS framework, creating conditions for long-term stability and supporting local authorities in governance and security.

The returning officers were formally received in a ceremony led by Principal Secretary for Internal Security and National Administration Raymond Omollo, alongside Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja. National Security Advisor Monica Juma, recently appointed Executive Director of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and Director-General of the United Nations Office at Vienna, also attended. Inspector General Emeritus Joseph Boinnet joined the officials in recognising the officers’ service.

The Ministry of Interior described the reception as a “warm” welcome, highlighting official appreciation for the officers’ dedication. It emphasised that their deployment formed part of “Kenya’s broader leadership role in the UN-backed multinational mission aimed at protecting civilians, securing critical infrastructure, and strengthening local security responses.”

Kenya’s involvement in the Haiti mission has drawn attention both domestically and internationally, showcasing the country’s capacity to support peacekeeping beyond Africa.

As the officers reunite with their families and resume duties at home, their deployment serves as an example of Kenya’s expanding role in global security operations. Discussions continue on the future of the mission and potential deployment of additional personnel, underlining Kenya’s willingness to participate in coordinated international efforts to protect vulnerable populations.