Kenya’s MSS mission in Haiti has claimed a significant victory after neutralizing a gang plot against critical infrastructure. The operation, carried out this week, stands out as one of the mission’s biggest successes since its deployment in June 2024.
Armed groups had threatened to blow up a facility that controls communications for Haiti’s international airport and other vital services. Such an attack would have crippled the country’s telecommunications network.
MSS spokesman Jack Ombaka announced that the raid left gangs with major losses. Security officers detained several suspects and confiscated a large cache of weapons. Kenya’s Principal Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Dr. Korir Sing’oei, praised the mission’s results. “Kenya is interest from the very beginning has been to ensure peace is restored in Haiti,” he said.
Kenya’s Mission in Haiti
Kenya has taken the lead in the UN-backed MSS mission, created to support the Haitian National Police (PNH) in retaking areas dominated by gangs. In July 2023, President William Ruto pledged to send 1,000 officers, calling Haiti’s crisis “a test of global solidarity.”
The first deployment of 400 police arrived in June 2024, launching active operations in Port-au-Prince. Later, other nations joined. Jamaica contributed both military and police officers, strengthening the campaign against heavily armed groups.
Although speculation emerged about strained relations between Kenyan officers and the PNH, both forces dismissed the rumors. MSS commander Godfrey Otunge urged Haitians not to believe claims of collusion. He emphasized that joint operations remain closely coordinated and focused on dismantling gang networks.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
In May 2025, Kenya pursued new partnerships to bolster the mission. During a visit to Brazil, Foreign Affairs Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi requested technical expertise and financial support. He also appealed to the United Nations, the United States, and regional partners to expand their commitments.
Kenya’s leaders argue that defeating gangs requires more than security crackdowns. Long-term stability will depend on rebuilding communities, supporting the Haitian police, and sustaining international cooperation. Therefore, Nairobi continues to call for broader global engagement to guarantee lasting peace.
The Kenya Haiti MSS mission has now scored one of its most decisive victories, stopping gangs from striking Haiti’s communications hub. With more countries offering support, Kenya remains determined to help restore order and give Haiti a chance to rebuild after years of violent unrest.
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