UN Security Council extends Haiti mission

The United Nations Security Council has extended the mandate of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti by a year to October 2, 2025.

The renewed mandate, outlined in resolution 2699 (2023), reflects the Council's ongoing commitment to addressing security challenges in the gang-overrun Caribbean nation.

"The UN Security Council, acting under Chapter VII of the Charter of the UN, has extended the present mandate of the MSS mission, as authorized in resolution 2699 (2023), to October 2, 2025," the National Police Service (NPS) said in an X statement on Saturday.

The UN Council likewise reiterated its call for the Haitian government and the leadership of the MSS mission to provide regular updates on the progress of the deployment.

At the same time, the Security Council also indicated its intention to explore the possibility of establishing a UN Peace Operation to assist the Haitian National Police, in order to sustain the gains made by the MSS mission.

"The National Police Service reaffirms its commitment to international law enforcement, working closely with the people of Haiti, and partners supporting the MSS to ensure peace and security in Haiti," said NPS.

On Thursday, President William Ruto confirmed that Kenya will fulfill its commitment to ensure 2,500 police officers are deployed to Haiti as part of the security mission to Port-au-Prince

Speaking during the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. the President explained that the 382 officers already deployed to Haiti had made significant strides in the mission by protecting critical infrastructure and regaining communities previously held by gangs.

Kenya initially pledged to send 1,000 police officers for the mission, hence the President's statement means the remaining over 600 will be deployed in January.

Ruto lauded the United States and Canada for providing the necessary funding and logistical support towards the mission.

In spite of the tremendous achievements, President Ruto acknowledged that the mission faced numerous challenges such as several nations failing to honour their pledges in providing the required funds.

"Kenya and other African countries are ready to deploy but are hindered by insufficient equipment, logistics and funding. I appeal to member states to stand in solidarity with the people of Haiti by providing necessary support either directly to MSS, contributing countries or through the UN Trust Fund," the Head of State said.