Ruto engages US Secretary of State on fate of Haiti mission following Trump election

The two leaders explored the option of transitioning the mission into a United Nations Peacekeeping operation to enhance its progression and completion by October next year. 

In the past, the mission has faced delays due to financial and logistical challenges required for the complex undertaking. 

Reports indicate that foreign nations had pledged millions to support the mission with the United States pledging up to Ksh.38.5 billion.

With President-elect Donald Trump set to assume office in January 2025, it remains unclear if the US will honour its pledge. 

The United Nations Security Council, which approved the mission, has been considering the best options to support the resource-strapped mission to restore peace in Haiti. 

The MSS has been receiving support from voluntary contributions but transitioning to a UN-peacekeeping mission means it will be the collective responsibility of all 193 UN member states to fund the process. 

"I have had a constructive conversation with US Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken on the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission (MSS) in Haiti," Ruto stated. 

"We discussed the transition of the mission into a UN peacekeeping operation to enhance the capability of the mission to help stabilise Haiti," he added. 

Further, Blinken implored Ruto to continue engaging the youth on policy matters following the Gen Z protests that highlighted the importance of accountability among leaders. 

"The Secretary reaffirmed the close and enduring connection between the peoples of our two nations and reiterated our support for Kenya’s inclusive and democratic future," the statement read in part.