Kenyan Police Officers Return Home After 18-Month Haiti Mission

First Contingent Completes Peacekeeping Assignment

The first group of Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti returned home on Tuesday, December 9. They completed an 18-month mission under the Multi-National Security Support Mission, which later transitioned to the Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
The officers left Kenya in June 2024 to support stability efforts and train the Haitian Police.

Nation Honours Fallen Officers

National Security Advisor Ambassador Monica Juma received the officers at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA). She led a moment of silence to honour officers who did not survive the mission.

Officers Recognised for Key Achievements

During the reception, the team received praise for major gains in Haiti. They reopened key road networks and enhanced local security. They also supported training and capacity building for the Haitian Police.

Senior Police Leaders Praise the Team

Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service, Eliud Lagat, commended the officers for their discipline and integrity. He said the skills gained abroad would strengthen policing in Kenya.
Additionally, Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service, Gilbert Masengeli, thanked President William Ruto and mission partners for their support. He added that the mission boosted Kenya’s global reputation.

Senior Officials Accompany Returning Officers

Deputy National Security Advisor and former Inspector General Joseph Boinnet travelled with the team. Kenya’s Consul-General in Port-au-Prince, Noor Gabow, also accompanied the contingent.

New Team Arrives in Haiti for Reinforcement

Meanwhile, the fifth batch of Kenyan police officers arrived in Port-au-Prince on Monday, December 8.
The 230 specialised officers were received by Laurent Saint-Cyr, President of Haiti’s Transitional Presidential Council, and other top authorities.

New Troops to Support Anti-Gang Operations

The new contingent will work closely with Haitian authorities, including the Haitian National Police and the military. Their mandate is to help eliminate criminal gangs across the country.

Haiti Faces Escalating Violence

The deployment comes as violence intensifies in Port-au-Prince and nearby regions. In Artibonite, gangs recently killed at least 20 people in Pont-Sondé.
Armed groups continue to conduct kidnappings, arson, and road blockades. As a result, more than 1.4 million people remain displaced across Haiti.