A fresh group of 230 Kenyan police officers returned to the country on Monday evening after completing a demanding assignment in Haiti, where they were part of an international mission working to restore order in the violence-hit Caribbean nation.
Their arrival was marked with celebrations and tributes in recognition of their courage, discipline and the heavy sacrifices made during the operation, which claimed the lives of three Kenyan officers.
National Security Advisor Monica Juma led the reception and praised the team for representing the country with honour throughout the mission. She said the officers carried out their duties with professionalism and a strong sense of responsibility both to Kenya and to the people of Haiti.
“We are delighted. I want to sincerely thank all of you for your contribution to the Republic in restoring peace and order, together with the Kenya Defence Force, the National Intelligence Service, and the National Police Service. This partnership is a true testament that when we work together as a team, we can achieve great results,” she said.
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat also hailed the officers, saying their conduct had earned Kenya respect on the global stage. “You have made us proud as a country and a service. You have served diligently in Haiti,” he said.
Some of the 230 Kenyan police officers who returned to the country from Haiti on December 9, 2025.PHOTO/X
Senior Superintendent of Police Clappeton Imbiru, who served as deputy collegiate commander during the mission, described the situation on the ground as extremely harsh. He said the officers found a country that was battling near total collapse, with armed gangs overwhelming government structures and controlling large parts of Haiti.
“We found a country that was almost collapsing, with a government nearly overrun by gangs. Roads were barricaded, and civilians were extorted. Our Kenyan training helped us operate above the bar compared to the gangs’ activities. We secured critical areas like the airport and police academy, allowing local police training to continue. The mission was accomplished because we pushed security forward in Haiti, and our presence was greatly appreciated by the local population,” he said.
Imbiru urged Kenyans to appreciate the stability they enjoy and warned that ignoring small crimes can open the door to bigger threats.
“Peace has no price. Small crimes can grow into large problems if ignored, as we saw in Haiti. Kenyans should not take their safety for granted,” he said.
Even as the officers returned home, Kenya has continued to reinforce its role in ongoing efforts to stabilise Haiti. On Monday, another contingent of 230 officers was deployed to support operations under the expanded mandate of the Gang Suppression Force, which was widened in October 2025. GSF Force Commander Godfrey Otunge said the continued deployment reflects Kenya’s long-term commitment to helping restore order.
“Kenya stands with Haiti, for as long as it takes, until peace prevails,” he said.
Haitian authorities welcomed the fresh support, noting that it will help reopen blocked routes, secure humanitarian corridors and protect communities still facing relentless attacks from armed groups. According to the United Nations, at least 3,141 people were killed in Haiti in the first half of this year, highlighting the scale of the crisis.
Kenya has pledged to maintain its contribution as part of the wider multinational mission working to stabilise the country.
