Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, has commended 230 police officers who recently returned to Kenya after completing an 18-month tour of duty in Haiti under the Multinational Security Support Mission. The officers were recognized for upholding high standards of discipline, integrity, and respect for human dignity during their deployment.
The reception luncheon for the returning officers coincided with the departure of another contingent of 230 officers to Haiti as part of the Gang Suppression Force. This latest deployment reinforces Kenya’s commitment to international security, which began in June 2024 when the first cohort of officers was deployed to Haiti.
According to Murkomen, the success of the Haiti mission has reaffirmed the professionalism and dedication of Kenya’s police officers. The mission has achieved significant milestones, including improved stability in Haiti, restored freedom of movement, and the reopening of critical road networks. Additionally, Kenyan officers have made notable progress in training the Haitian police and have maintained exemplary discipline while upholding strict human rights standards.
Police Inspector General Douglas Kanja assured the returning officers that their pending allowances will be paid once the United Nations releases the funds. Currently, the officers have only received their October allowances, with November payments still outstanding. Kanja praised the officers for their resilience, sacrifice, and exemplary service, and paid tribute to those who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace.
The deployment of Kenyan police officers to Haiti is part of a broader international effort to support security and stability in the Caribbean nation. Kenya’s contribution to this effort has been recognized internationally, with President William Ruto recently assuring US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Kenya will not leave Haiti in a disorganized manner. As the situation in Haiti continues to evolve, Kenya’s commitment to international security and cooperation remains a key aspect of its foreign policy.