Kenya has received authorization from the United Nations (UN) to deploy a multinational security force to Haiti in the near future. The UN Security Council voted overwhelmingly in favor of Kenya leading this mission, aimed at addressing the prevalent issue of gang violence in Haiti.
Kenya’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Alfred Mutua, expressed that this mandate not only focuses on peace and security but also emphasizes the reconstruction of Haiti. He called upon international partners to collaborate with Kenya in forming an effective multinational support mission that will quickly make a positive impact on the lives of the Haitian people.
The UN Security Council’s resolution in support of the Kenyan-led international force received 13 votes in favor, with China and Russia abstaining from the vote.
Haitian Foreign Minister Jean Victor Geneus welcomed the UN’s decision, characterizing it as an act of solidarity with a population facing significant challenges.
The exact size of the international force is yet to be determined, but Kenya has proposed sending 1,000 police officers to assist in restoring peace and security in Haiti. The Bahamas, Jamaica, and Antigua and Barbuda have also pledged their participation in this mission.
Mr. Mutua expressed his expectation that the multinational force would be operational by the beginning of the next year, if not earlier.
