150 Kenyan police officers return from Haiti, ending MSS mission

The fourth contingent of Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission has returned home, marking the conclusion of Kenya’s role in restoring order in the Caribbean nation.

The 150 officers arrived at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) on Tuesday evening to a warm reception by senior security officials, bringing to a close a mission that began in 2024 following approval by the United Nations Security Council.

They were received at JKIA by Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, accompanied by the National Security Advisor Joseph Boinett, Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat, alongside other senior officers.

Kenya had deployed about 980 officers in phases to support efforts to stabilise Haiti, particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, which had been overrun by armed gangs.

Officials at the time lauded the officers for their professionalism and commitment while operating in a volatile environment alongside the Haitian National Police.

“In a foreign land, under difficult and often dangerous conditions, alongside the Haitian National Police, they upheld the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and courage, flying the Kenyan flag with distinction,” Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo said during a previous reception.

The Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission has since transitioned into the Gang Suppression Force (GSF), a new framework backed by the international community to sustain gains made in Haiti.

The GSF is expected to comprise up to 5,500 personnel, including police officers and soldiers, working closely with the Haitian National Police and Armed Forces to neutralise gangs, secure critical infrastructure and support humanitarian operations.

Kenyan officers played a key role during the mission, including reopening critical road networks and supporting capacity-building efforts for local security agencies.

Security officials noted that the experience gained by the officers will strengthen policing operations back home.

At previous ceremonies, National Security Advisor Monica Juma described the mission as “a promise kept,” while Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat said the contingent upheld integrity and honour under challenging conditions.

The National Police Service also honoured officers who lost their lives during the mission, reiterating its commitment to support their families.

Kenya has maintained that it will continue working with Haiti and international partners to support long-term peace and stability efforts even as the current deployment comes to an end.