The United Nations Security Council is set to vote on whether to extend the Kenya-led security mission in Haiti by 12 months, as Nairobi grapples with mounting obstacles in its efforts to restore order in the crisis-stricken Caribbean nation.....CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL ARTICLE>>>
With President William Ruto expected to visit New York for the United Nations General Assembly in the coming weeks, the decision carries significant political and financial implications for Kenya.
Why it matters:
The Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, first established in October 2023, aimed to help Haitian authorities regain control over areas controlled by armed gangs. However, despite the deployment of Kenyan police officers and pledges of support from other nations, the mission has struggled to meet its objectives.
Kenya’s role in leading the mission has garnered international attention, but it has also faced considerable difficulties on the ground. Sources close to the mission report that Kenyan troops have been poorly equipped and underfunded, with the situation deteriorating as armed gangs in Haiti continue to wreak havoc.
Dig deeper:
The United States and Ecuador have now proposed a draft resolution that would extend the MSS mandate for another year and initiate discussions to transition the mission into a full U.N. peacekeeping operation. According to a U.S. State Department official, this move is critical to maintaining security gains in Haiti and ensuring long-term stability. “The Kenyan-led mission has laid a foundation, but it’s clear more needs to be done. The U.N. could provide the resources and structure to make that happen,” the official stated.
This shift, however, could be seen as a diplomatic blow to Kenya, as it would signal the mission’s shortcomings. The MSS mission, initially backed by the U.S. and other countries, was expected to show rapid results. Yet, the complexities of Haiti’s situation have proven overwhelming, even for Kenya’s well-trained security forces.
Reports indicate that delays in pay and inadequate equipment have left many Kenyan officers demoralised.
Despite these challenges, the U.S. government views the proposed U.N. peacekeeping transition as a solution to the financial shortfalls that have hampered the mission. The cost of maintaining the operation has ballooned, with estimates suggesting that Kenya spends approximately Ksh25.75 billion every six months. While the international community has contributed some funds, including $68 million to a U.N. trust fund, the resources fall far short of the mission’s needs.
What would be different:
A formal U.N. peacekeeping mission would ensure a steady flow of funding and the necessary logistical support, including helicopters and medical supplies, which have been sorely lacking. Additionally, a U.N.-led operation could involve more countries contributing troops, relieving Kenya of some of the burdens it currently bears.
The Security Council is expected to vote on the mandate’s extension by September 30, with nine votes required to pass the resolution. Although no vetoes are anticipated from the five permanent members—Russia, China, the U.S., France, and the U.K.—the possibility of abstentions remains. China and Russia had abstained in the initial vote to authorise the Kenya-led mission, expressing reservations about the broad use of force in Haiti.
The mission’s fate now hinges on this vote, as well as Kenya’s continued commitment to lead efforts in Haiti. However, should the Security Council approve the U.N. peacekeeping transition, Kenya’s role may shift significantly.
The situation in Haiti remains dire, with nearly 580,000 people internally displaced and over 5 million facing severe hunger. Kenyan troops have reported difficulties in gaining control over the territories dominated by violent gangs, who have shown little fear of international intervention.
President Ruto’s upcoming visit to the United Nations General Assembly will likely be overshadowed by these developments. With Kenya’s international reputation at stake, the government faces tough decisions about how to proceed….CLICK HERE FOR MORE ARTICLE>>>
