U.S. military planes filled with civilian contractors and supplies have begun landing in Haiti, in preparation for a seven-nation security mission led by Kenya, to deploy to the troubled Caribbean nation in the coming weeks. While the security situation in Haiti worsens and millions of Haitians face hunger, the estimated cost of the deployment is $600 million, but only a fraction of the funding needed has been secured. The exact deployment date has not been set, and the Kenyan government did not respond to comments.
Several flights from South Carolina’s Charleston Air Force Base have landed at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince to help secure the airport before establishing a base of operations for the international security force. The deployment of the multinational mission is seen as urgent, with the focus on providing greater security for the Haitian people amid the crisis caused by gang violence that is pushing millions towards famine. Various countries have pledged to contribute personnel, including Kenya, the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad, and Jamaica.
The security mission to Haiti was approved by the United Nations seven months ago but faced delays in deployment due to legal obstacles in Kenya. The current plan involves a 2,500-member security force, led by 1,000 police officers from Kenya, to address the widespread gang violence in Haiti. In addition to Kenya, other countries like Benin, Jamaica, and the Bahamas have pledged personnel for the force. Canada also provided training to Jamaican officers ahead of their deployment to Haiti to enhance peacekeeping skills and combat first aid.
The security situation in Haiti has deteriorated significantly in recent months, with gangs taking over large parts of the capital, leading to severe disruptions to essential services and infrastructure. More than 350,000 people have been displaced from their homes, and millions are unable to work due to violence and gunfire. The deployment of the security force aims to restore peace and security while working towards establishing a new interim government and organizing elections by late 2025.
Despite the urgent need for the security mission in Haiti, funding remains a major challenge. The U.S. government has pledged $300 million, but Congress approval is required to release the funds. The U.N. fund for the mission is currently at $18 million, mostly pledged by Canada. However, in-kind donations and provision of equipment from the Biden administration could also help finance the mission. The start of the mission’s deployment in Haiti is eagerly awaited, with hopes that it will be operational soon to address the pressing security challenges facing the country.
While the exact timeline for the deployment of the security mission in Haiti remains uncertain, there are expectations that it may coincide with a state visit by Kenya’s President William Ruto on May 23. Although efforts are underway to establish a presence on the ground, significant operational challenges still need to be addressed to effectively address the security crisis in Haiti. The focus remains on providing critical support to restore stability and security in the country, working alongside the Haitian National Police to address the threats posed by gangs and violence.
