Kenyan Police Begin Patrols in Haiti to Combat Gang Violence

Kenyan police have begun patrolling the streets of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, as part of an international effort to combat the escalating gang violence that has plagued the country. This deployment, the first contingent of a larger Multinational Security Support Mission, arrived in Haiti on June 25 in response to a request for international assistance to address the severe security crisis. The Kenyan officers, equipped with body armor and automatic weapons, have been stationed near the international airport and have already started joint operations with Haitian law enforcement.

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille addressed the United Nations Security Council on Wednesday, July 3rd, emphasizing the importance of the Kenyan police in controlling the gangs and aiding Haiti’s transition toward democratic elections. Conille highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that gangs control approximately 80% of the capital, leading to the displacement of over 580,000 people. He expressed optimism about the early days of the mission, describing feedback as “extremely, extremely positive.”

Kenya has committed 1,000 police officers to the mission, with more contingents arriving soon. These officers will be joined by personnel from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad, and Jamaica, bringing the total force to 2,500. This international police force aims to stabilize Haiti, reduce gang violence, and prepare the country for democratic elections scheduled for February 2026.

Haiti’s request for international support came after gangs grew significantly in power following the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021. The surge in violence has included coordinated attacks on government infrastructure, leading to the resignation of Prime Minister Ariel Henry in April. The ongoing conflict has also exacerbated food insecurity, with more than 4 million Haitians facing hunger.

Conille, who assumed his role as prime minister last month, is focused on addressing gang violence, ensuring food security, and rebuilding public trust in the police. He acknowledged Haiti’s history of mixed results with foreign intervention but stressed the need for close coordination to avoid past mistakes. The U.N. Special Representative for Haiti, María Isabel Salvador, urged the international community to support the funding of the police operation, with the United States pledging $309 million.

Despite the challenges, the deployment of the Kenyan police offers a glimmer of hope for Haiti. The international community’s support is crucial in helping Haiti navigate this critical period and move toward a more stable and secure future.