The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially welcomed the transition of the Haiti security mission from the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) to the newly formed Gang Suppression Force (GSF).
This significant shift, endorsed by a United Nations Security Council resolution, will see the GSF assume command of the ongoing efforts to restore stability in Haiti. The new multinational force will comprise up to 5,500 uniformed personnel, including both police officers and soldiers, and will operate under an initial 12-month mandate
In a statement, the Ministry emphasized that Kenya’s involvement in Haiti “has always been anchored in the protection of vulnerable communities, the upholding of the United Nations Charter, and our commitment to global peace and security in line with international obligations.”
Currently, approximately 800 Kenyan police officers are deployed under the MSS to assist the Haitian police in combating rampant gang violence that has crippled the nation. Since the mission’s deployment, which was approved in 2023, its outcomes have been mixed. Three Kenyan officers lost their lives, and several others sustained injuries during the mission. Tragically, one of the officers reported deceased has remained missing since March 2025.
The new GSF initiative enjoys broad international backing, including support from the United States, Panama, other UN member states, and several nations within the Caribbean region.
Under the new mandate, the GSF will work in close coordination with the Haitian National Police (HNP) and the Haitian Armed Forces (HAF). Their joint operations will focus on:
- Neutralizing gang activity
- Securing critical infrastructure
- Facilitating humanitarian access
Additionally, the resolution tasks the UN Secretary-General with establishing a UN Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH). This office will provide critical logistical and operational support to the GSF, HNP, and HAF — including rations, medical care, transportation, communications, and troop rotation.
This transition marks a new chapter in the international community’s effort to stabilize Haiti and reflects Kenya’s continued commitment to global peacekeeping efforts.
