Kenyan police have arrived in Haiti to assist in combating powerful gangs, as the Caribbean nation struggles with violence. Around 200 officers, with more expected on Thursday, have been deployed in the Haitian capital, Port-au-Prince, as part of a mission involving 2,500 personnel from various countries.
The deployment has been welcomed by Haiti’s acting prime minister, Garry Conille, as a “unique opportunity” to address the nation’s crisis. U.S. President Joe Biden has praised the initiative, emphasizing the importance of improving security and promoting democratic freedoms in Haiti.
Despite facing violence and unrest in Nairobi, Kenyan President William Ruto has shown unwavering support for the Haiti mission. Questions have been raised regarding how Kenyan forces will handle the situation in both locations, but officials have reiterated their commitment to upholding human rights.
The multinational force, approved by the U.N. Security Council, aims to restore stability in Haiti, where gangs have intensified violence in recent months. International support is crucial for the success of the mission, with the U.N. Secretary-General calling on member states to provide financial backing.
Washington has pledged significant funding for the mission, highlighting the importance of cooperation between nations to address crises like the one in Haiti. With other countries also expressing willingness to join the effort, there is hope for a collective response to the challenges faced in the region.
The situation in Haiti remains critical, with gangs exerting control and hindering access to essential services. The deployment of international forces represents a significant step towards restoring peace and security in the country.
© 2024 AFP