International Partners Urged to Fulfill Commitments to UN-Backed Peacekeeping Mission in Haiti
The leaders of Kenya and Haiti have appealed to international partners to fulfill their commitments to the United Nations-backed peacekeeping mission in Haiti, emphasizing the urgent need for additional resources as the mission’s budget is set to expire in March 2025.
Kenya Leads the Charge
Kenya, which is spearheading the mission aimed at curbing gang violence in Haiti, has deployed nearly 400 officers to the Caribbean nation. They are supported by around 20 police officers and soldiers from Jamaica, but these figures fall significantly short of the 2,500 personnel pledged by various countries, including Chad, Benin, Bangladesh, and Barbados.
Additional Deployments and Support Needed
During a meeting in Nairobi on Friday, Kenyan President William Ruto announced plans to deploy an additional 600 officers next month. He stated, "We have a window of success that is evident from the operations that have been carried out already."
Urgent Financial Needs
As of now, the U.N. has received $68 million of the $85 million pledged for the mission, highlighting the urgent financial needs of the operation as it seeks to restore peace and security in Haiti.
Haiti Prime Minister’s Plea
Haiti Prime Minister Garry Conille, who attended the meeting, urged international partners to fulfill their pledges to ensure that the Kenyan contingent has the necessary resources to succeed. "Regular meetings with the Kenyan commander have filled me with encouragement that the fight against Haiti’s gangs is winnable," Conille noted.
Background on the Situation in Haiti
The situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021. Gangs are now estimated to control up to 80% of the capital, leading to a surge in killings, rapes, and kidnappings. This violence has prompted civilian vigilante groups to rise up against the gangs.
UN Security Council’s Extension of Mandate
In early October, the U.N. Security Council unanimously voted to extend the mandate of the Kenya-led multinational force, dismissing a call from Haiti to initiate discussions on transitioning to a U.N. peacekeeping mission.
Conclusion
The situation in Haiti remains dire, and it is crucial that international partners honor their commitments to the UN-backed peacekeeping mission. The Kenyan-led forces must be equipped with the necessary resources to succeed in their mission to restore peace and security in the country.
FAQs
- What is the current budget for the UN-backed peacekeeping mission in Haiti?
The mission’s budget is set to expire in March 2025. - How many personnel has Kenya deployed to Haiti?
Kenya has deployed nearly 400 officers to Haiti. - What is the current level of support from other countries?
Countries such as Chad, Benin, Bangladesh, and Barbados have pledged to send 2,500 personnel, but only around 20 police officers and soldiers from Jamaica have arrived so far. - How much funding has the UN received for the mission so far?
As of now, the UN has received $68 million of the $85 million pledged for the mission.
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