The United Nations Security Council has unanimously voted to extend the authorization of the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to Haiti for an additional year.
This decision, made on September 30, allows member states to deploy troops to assist in restoring security in Haiti and creating an environment suitable for free and fair elections.
In a resolution passed by the Council, Secretary-General António Guterres endorsed the need for immediate action, recommending that member states, acting in cooperation with the Haitian government, deploy a rapid action force to address urgent humanitarian needs.
Kenya initially agreed to lead the multinational force in July 2023, following Haiti’s request ten months earlier, committing to send 1,000 police officers.
Since then, at least nine other nations from Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean have expressed their intent to contribute to the mission.
Although the UN is not administering the mission, the authorization was necessary for Kenya, Haiti, and other stakeholders to move forward.
On October 2, the Security Council adopted the resolution, mandating the mission to provide operational support for humanitarian priorities in Haiti.
The resolution grants a 12-month authorization for the mission, with a review scheduled after nine months.
Funding for the operation will come from voluntary contributions and support from participating countries and regional organizations.
Reports indicate that the MSS mission could include up to 2,500 officers deployed in phases, with an estimated annual cost of around $600 million (sh 77.4 billion).
The initial deployment, originally slated for February, has faced multiple delays due to funding issues, legal challenges in Kenya, and a rise in gang violence in Haiti.
In June and July, Kenya successfully deployed the mission’s first two contingents, totaling approximately 400 police officers, with the remaining 600 officers expected to follow within the next two months.
Additionally, on September 12, the first Caribbean contingent arrived, comprising 24 military and police officers from Jamaica and two military officers from Belize.
The ongoing mission aims to enhance security in Haiti, where escalating violence and humanitarian crises have necessitated international support and intervention.
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