A delegation comprising Kenyan “command staff” has reportedly landed in Haiti to assess the preparedness exercise preceding the deployment of Kenyan troops.
According to a law enforcement source in Haiti, the delegation’s focus is on scrutinizing equipment and facilities for multinational police forces.
“The assessment will determine the timelines for the deployment of forces from foreign nations,” the source stated.
This development follows a recent statement from Kenya’s Principal Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Korir Sing’oei, affirming that Kenya is in the final stages of deploying its officers.
Sing’oei, speaking on Sunday, reiterated Kenya’s commitment to the UN-backed peacekeeping mission, affirming that the country, as the leader of the multinational security force, would send off its officers in the coming weeks.
Earlier in May, an AFP report cited a Haitian source confirming the arrival of the first contingent of 200 Kenyan police officers, out of the pledged 1,000.
Kenya had previously announced a hold on its deployment until a transitional council was established in Haiti, following the resignation of then-prime minister Ariel Henry amidst escalating violence.
The council was inaugurated late last month and is expected to govern the country until fresh elections are held, paving the way for an elected government by February 6 next year.
In addition to Kenya, other countries expressing readiness to participate in the UN-mandated mission, as per a resolution passed in October the previous year, include Benin, The Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, and Chad.
The delegation’s visit to Haiti coincides with President William Ruto’s four-day visit to the United States, where he is scheduled to meet President Joe Biden.
Rumors have circulated about Ruto’s potential visit to Haiti, which PS Sing’oei vehemently denied.
