Kenya sends more troops to Haiti to fight gang violence

NAIROBI, Kenya

Another 217 Kenyan police officers arrived Saturday in Haiti as part of a UN-backed mission to tackle gang violence and restore stability in that nation, the Kenyan presidency confirmed.

The presidency said the officers “arrived Saturday in Haiti … to battle violent gangs that have taken over parts of the troubled Caribbean country. They were received by the Haitian President Fritz Alphonse Jean among other top government officials.”

The officers' mandate includes protecting civilians, upholding public order and assisting in the reform and strengthening of Haiti’s law enforcement organizations. It said the officers will also patrol, engage in community policing and train law enforcement personnel.

Kenya first deployed 400 officers to Haiti in June where Kenyan President William Ruto expressed confidence in their ability to contribute to lasting peace in Haiti, noting their integrity, professionalism and expertise.

The Kenyan police have made strides in improving security and stability in Haiti, despite the challenging environment.

Haiti has grappled with gang violence and political instability for years, a crisis that has seen residents exposed to kidnappings, armed robberies and killings which have surged, making violent crime an alarming and daily reality for many Haitians

Haiti has been asking for international assistance to help restore order and security.

The US has pledged $300 million for the UN-led Multinational Security Support mission in Haiti, with Canada contributing $123 million, including $80.5 million for the UN trust fund. Jamaica and Senegal have also supported the initiative, deploying security personnel to aid the mission.