President William Ruto has urged the international community to honor funding pledges for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti. He reported that an additional 600 Kenyan police officers will be deployed to Haiti next month, reiterating the need for continued support. The joint efforts have successfully restored order in key locations, yet significant challenges remain due to gang violence affecting millions in Haiti.
In a press briefing held at State House, Nairobi, President William Ruto emphasized the necessity for the international community to fulfill its financial commitments to support the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti. He highlighted the urgent need for personnel, logistics, and financial resources to maintain and further develop the ongoing security efforts. President Ruto announced that Kenya is preparing to deploy an additional 600 police officers to Haiti next month, who are currently undergoing pre-deployment training. During discussions with Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille, he remarked on the positive outcomes of the mission, which has instilled hope and offered a glimpse of stability for Haiti. “Today, we discussed ways to sustain and build on that momentum. This is a battle we can win if our friends stand resolute in solidarity with Haiti,” said the President. He noted that the Kenyan officers are collaborating with the Haitian National Police to restore order, safeguard critical infrastructure, and create safe environments conducive to the well-being of Haitians. The President underscored the successful recapture of vital locations such as the general hospital, the port, and the National Palace as a testament to their efforts. He appealed to global partners to leverage the success of the MSS Mission by providing necessary resources and equipment. President Ruto clarified that the United Nations’ extension of the MSS mission for an additional year demonstrates substantial global backing. He praised the professionalism of the Kenyan forces stationed in Haiti, advocating for their unwavering dedication to their responsibilities. Ruto also highlighted that Kenya’s global security initiatives played a pivotal role in the country’s election to the UN Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term. Notably, beyond security matters, there are ongoing discussions between Kenya and Haiti aimed at enhancing tourism collaboration and cultural exchanges. He stated, “To achieve lasting change, we must invest in economic growth and social connectivity.” Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism, recognizing it as a crucial strength for global progress. Prime Minister Conille expressed gratitude for the effective deployment of Kenyan forces in Haiti. He recognized Kenya’s significant contributions in rallying international support amid the crisis. “Where others saw a crisis, you saw an opportunity and potential and you voiced it in a very strong way, allowing others to come together around Haiti,” he noted. Conille echoed President Ruto’s urgent call for global backing to sustain the mission’s momentum, emphasizing the dire humanitarian situation in Haiti, where gang members have effectively endangered the lives of its 12 million citizens, leaving half of the population food insecure and displacing 600,000 individuals.
The Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission has been established in response to the escalating security crisis in Haiti, where gang violence and civil unrest have severely impaired the daily lives of citizens. With ongoing humanitarian challenges, including food insecurity and displacement, the mission aims to restore stability and order while empowering local authorities and communities. Kenya’s involvement is pivotal, reflecting its commitment to international peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts. The initiative seeks not only to enhance security but also to foster economic growth and cultural engagement between Kenya and Haiti.
In summary, President William Ruto has called for immediate global support for the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, emphasizing the urgency of fulfilling financial commitments and deploying resources to sustain peace and stability efforts. The collaboration between Kenyan forces and Haitian authorities has produced promising results; however, further international support is crucial to continue this momentum. The situation in Haiti remains critical, with significant portions of the population facing food insecurity and displacement, necessitating a unified global response to meet these challenges head-on.
Original Source: allafrica.com
