Kenyan delegation lands in Haiti for anticipated security operation, as per reports

A group of Kenyan officials known as "command staff" has recently landed in Haiti, as reported by a local law enforcement insider. They have come in advance of a Kenyan-led multinational security support force that is set to arrive in the Caribbean nation after facing delays.

This delegation's main task this week is to evaluate the readiness of equipment and facilities for the foreign police forces. This assessment will play a crucial role in deciding when the deployment will take place, according to a source familiar with the ongoing preparations as told to CNN.

Sources mentioned that members of the delegation are set to have meetings with officials from the US and the United Nations during their visit to the country.

It was reported that the UN Security Council gave approval for a multinational mission to assist Haiti's National Police in combating dangerous gangs that have taken over a significant portion of the capital city, Port-au-Prince, last year.

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Despite receiving strong support from the US and other regional powers, the mission in Haiti has faced challenges and uncertainty for several months. The resignation of former Prime Minister Ariel Henry in March caused further delays until a transitional governing council was established.

A UN-managed trust fund for the mission currently holds $21 million, with contributions from Canada ($8.7 million), France ($3.2 million), Spain ($3 million), and the United States ($6 million). Personnel for the mission have been offered by countries like the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belize, Benin, Chad, Jamaica, and Kenya.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken defended US funding for the mission in a Senate Foreign Relations hearing. He warned that Haiti is “on the precipice of becoming an all-out failed state” without international support.

Blinken acknowledged the skepticism surrounding another mission in Haiti. However, he highlighted the general revulsion of the people towards the current state of the country. Gangs are dominating Port-au-Prince and undermining governance, disrupting the democratic trajectory. This lack of clear government mandate has also interrupted development assistance and other forms of much-needed support.

Haiti's National Police have regained control of the airport and other important infrastructure. Commercial flights have already resumed in Haiti, and American carriers are expected to start flying again soon.

US President Joe Biden is set to meet with Kenyan President William Ruto and first lady Rachel Ruto at the White House on Thursday. The situation in Haiti is likely to be a key topic of discussion during the meeting.

Kenyan authorities did not respond to CNN’s request for comment.

CNN’s Michael Conte contributed reporting.

Editor's P/S:

The arrival of Kenyan officials in Haiti signals a positive step towards stabilizing the crisis-ridden nation. Their assessment of equipment and facilities will ensure a smooth deployment of the multinational security support force. This mission holds the promise of restoring order and combating the rampant gang violence that has plagued Haiti, offering a glimmer of hope to its beleaguered citizens. The involvement of experienced Kenyan personnel demonstrates the international community's commitment to supporting Haiti's National Police, enhancing their capacity to address the security challenges confronting the country.

However, the challenges facing the mission are not to be underestimated. Previous delays and setbacks underscore the complexity of the situation. Political instability and resource constraints continue to hamper progress. The international community must remain steadfast in its support, providing not only security assistance but also addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that have contributed to Haiti's instability.