Kenya sends another 200 Heroes of hope to Haiti

Kenya deployed another batch of over 200 police officers to Haiti to join other officers on Saturday, January 18, 2025.

This mission, backed by the United Nations, aims to address gang violence that has displaced more than a million people.

Ten countries have pledged to send over 3,100 troops for the mission. However, only a few have followed through. Kenya sent 217 officers in this latest deployment, adding to the 400 officers it sent last year.

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen spoke during the send-off ceremony. He emphasized Kenya’s strong commitment to the mission.

“Our dedication to this historic mission is unwavering. We will continue to mobilize all the necessary international support to ensure its success,” he said.

Thank you Kenya

Haitian President Fritz Alphonse Jean thanked Kenya for its contributions. He assured the country that his government would prioritize the safety of the Kenyan officers.

During the ceremony, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli encouraged the officers to stay vigilant.

He urged them to maintain high standards, pointing to Kenya’s past success in dealing with gangs as a source of pride.

Kenya had earlier promised to send 1,000 officers for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti.

However, reports by Reuters claimed that some officers resigned over delayed salaries and poor working conditions.

The MSS however, has denied these claims, stating that no officers have resigned and that salaries have been paid.

Other countries contributing to the mission include