On a recent state visit to the US, Kenya’s President William Ruto defended the deployment of 1,000 police officers to Haiti, insisting it was a voluntary contribution to global peacekeeping efforts despite criticism. Ruto, alongside US President Joe Biden, addressed concerns about the mission during a press briefing, emphasizing Kenya’s commitment to maintaining peace and security in Haiti.
The joint operation, authorized by the US, will see Kenyan-led forces supported by $300 million in equipment, capacity building, and cash. Although delayed due to logistical reasons, Kenya’s deployment aims to address rising gang violence and instability in Haiti, drawing mixed reactions from civil society groups and legal challenges back home. Ruto’s diplomatic visit marked 60 years of US-Kenya relations and elevated Kenya as a non-NATO ally, enhancing defense cooperation with the US.
Despite tensions and concerns raised by Haitian groups, Ruto affirmed Kenya’s commitment to aiding Haiti and emphasized the importance of global solidarity in peacekeeping efforts.