President Ruto announces progress in plan to deploy Kenyan police to Haiti

The signing of the agreement, witnessed by Ruto and Prime Minister Ariel Henri on Friday, marks a crucial step towards the deployment of Kenyan police officers to lead the international mission authorized by United Nations Security Council Resolution 2699.

President Ruto expressed Kenya's commitment to spearheading the coordination of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti, in response to the call from member States.

"Kenya, having been requested by member States, accepted to lead the coordination of this international mission," he stated.

Preparations for the deployment have been underway since the adoption of Resolution 2699 on October 2, 2023. This includes the authorization procedures, preparation of mission documents, engagement with member States, and the approval of the deployment by Kenya's National Security Council, Cabinet, and Parliament.

"We have witnessed the signing of this instrument," President Ruto announced, indicating the completion of a crucial legal requirement for the deployment. "We have also discussed the next steps to enable the fast-tracking of the deployment."

Highlighting Kenya's commitment, President Ruto emphasized the historic duty to contribute to the success of the multinational mission in Haiti. "Peace in Haiti is good for the world as a whole," he affirmed.

On October 13, 2023, the National Security Council and Cabinet approved the deployment of 1,000 police officers. Further, on November 16, 2023, Parliament unanimously approved this deployment.

The mission aims to address the complex challenges facing the country and pave the way for sustainable peace and development.