Kenyan President William Ruto has called on the international community to intensify support for Haiti, warning that recent security gains risk being undone without urgent and sustained global backing for the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission.
Speaking at a high-level event in New York on Monday, Ruto highlighted significant progress since international police units — led by Kenya — were deployed in June 2024 under a United Nations Security Council mandate. He noted improvements such as the reopening of Haiti’s main airport, the restoration of security at the presidential palace, and the resumption of services in schools and hospitals.
“When we first stepped into Haiti, the airport had been surrounded by gangs. Today, the airport is operational, the presidential palace is secure, and schools and hospitals have reopened,” Ruto said.
Kenya currently leads the MSS mission with 735 officers, making up the bulk of the 989 deployed personnel, supported by contributions from Guatemala, El Salvador, Jamaica, The Bahamas, and Canada.
However, Ruto expressed concern that the mission is only operating at 40% of its intended capacity, citing shortfalls in personnel, armored vehicles, and logistical resources. He criticized the slow pace of international support and warned of the dangers of under-resourcing the mission.
“The people of Haiti deserve better. What is going on, that we cannot marshal support to drive out the gangs, is unacceptable,” he said.
The President also paid tribute to three Kenyan officers who lost their lives in the line of duty and stressed the importance of a structured transition plan when the MSS mandate expires in the coming days.
“We will not walk away from Haiti in haste. If we do not transition properly, we may lose what we have achieved,” Ruto warned.
He concluded by calling for the MSS mission to be supported by a predictable funding model, a clearly defined mandate, and broader international commitment to addressing Haiti’s deep-rooted political and socio-economic challenges.
As the deadline for the current mandate approaches, Ruto’s remarks serve as a rallying call for renewed international engagement to secure long-term peace and stability in Haiti.
