US Increases Military Assistance for Kenyan Operations in Haiti
Additional Support from the White House
The White House has announced an increase in its support for Kenyan operations in Haiti, with plans to send an additional two dozen armored vehicles. This move is part of the US's ongoing support for Nairobi's armed forces in Port-au-Prince.
Statement from US Southern Command
On Friday, the US Southern Command released a statement regarding the increased military aid for Kenyan forces in Haiti. The statement read, "As part of the US government’s ongoing support to Haitian-led security efforts in the country, 24 additional MRAPS will be delivered and transferred to Kenyan personnel deployed to Haiti as part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission."
Kenyan Forces in Haiti
Earlier this year, Nairobi sent hundreds of armed troops to the Caribbean nation, referring to it as a "policing" operation. The deployment of Kenyan soldiers to Haiti was orchestrated by the US, with the belief that these troops could assist Haitian police in restoring power in Port-au-Prince to a government established by the White House. This move came after the assassination of President Jovenal Moise in 2021, which led to a descent into chaos under US-backed governments.
Kenyan-Led Military Force
The White House received authorization to fund, train, and arm a Kenyan-led military force to regain control of Haiti from paramilitary groups and gangs. A defense agreement was signed between the US and Kenya in September 2023, in which Kenya agreed to deploy 1,000 troops to Port-au-Prince. The mission is also set to include about 1,500 soldiers and police officers from other countries, bringing the total size of the prospective intervention force to 2,500.
Role of the Troops
The troops, however, are said to be in a policing role and are not operating as UN Peacekeepers. UN Peacekeepers have a controversial history in Haiti, having been associated with causing a cholera outbreak and widespread sexual abuse.
Operations in Port au Prince
Prime Minister Garry Conille stated on Wednesday that the Kenyan forces will begin operations in one of Port au Prince’s most dangerous neighborhoods. He added that the process will not be quick and patience will be required.
Bottom Line
The US's decision to increase military support for Kenyan operations in Haiti is a significant development in the ongoing efforts to restore stability in the Caribbean nation. It raises questions about the effectiveness of such interventions and the potential implications for Haiti's future. What are your thoughts on this development? Please share this article with your friends and let us know your views. Remember to sign up for the Daily Briefing, available every day at 6pm.
