The Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission's efforts to restore order amid Haiti's gang violence stand at a pivotal juncture as the operation, which started with much promise, grapples with significant challenges. Helmed by Commander Godfrey Otunge, the mission, decisively endorsed by the United Nations, aims to stabilize the Caribbean nation, still reeling from rampant lawlessness and gang rivalries. Currently, the force comprises about 400 Kenyan police officers, far short of the anticipated 2,500 personnel, which raises serious questions about its capacity to succeed against armed gangs.
Since the approval of the mission last October, instability has gradually unfolded as resources and funding continue to lag. Reports suggest the United States has been instrumental, contributing over $300 million to the cause, alongside Canada’s recent commitment of 59 million Canadian dollars to a U.N. trust fund.
The MSS is currently stuck in what commanders describe as the deployment phase, focused primarily on organizing personnel, procuring equipment, and coordinating with Haitian National Police (HNP). This focus presents both opportunities and difficulties, especially when contemplating how to confront armed groups responsible for earlier attacks on government infrastructure.
Commander Otunge, reflecting on the mission’s early days, reassures, “The gangs’ days are numbered,” but also admits to challenges the teams faced keeping pace with the operational needs on the ground. Since their arrival, the Kenyan officers have conducted several operations, achieving notable successes, such as retaking the State University of Haiti hospital from gang control and reopening the seaport, areas previously deemed off-limits.
One of the immediate concerns looms around public trust. Many Haitians complain about the limited visibility of Kenyan officers, questioning their presence on the streets even as patrols involving HNP are purportedly coordinated. Otunge insists on the commitment to maintain heightened security, maintaining regular patrols around strategic areas including regional airports and downtown districts.
The mission’s current configuration, lacking not only personnel but also several key resources, has drawn scrutiny. Notably absent are helicopters—critical for surveillance and rescue missions. Otunge emphasizes the operational importance of aerial support not just for outreach and resupply, but as strategic responses to gang barricades and emergencies. Conversations about air support remain active, and discussions are underway for possible mobilization of helicopters from allied nations.
Despite the hurdles, relationships appear to blossom. Otunge cites increasing international interest, noting conversations with potential partners eager to assist with both equipment and resources. Different nations have already approached him to understand how they can directly contribute to the mission’s aims.
Yet, the question of what makes this Kenyan-led effort distinct from traditional UN peacekeeping missions persists. According to Otunge, the MSS is not defined solely by its Kenyan core but markedly features international cooperation with plans to incorporate personnel from other nations such as Jamaica, Belize, and The Bahamas.
Critically, Otunge distinguishes the MSS from conflicts seen elsewhere, declaring the situation within Haiti as primarily “gang issues” rather than traditional warfare. While elements of violence exist, he believes the gangs are motivated by survival rather than ideological warfare, rendering them amenable to engagement, which is the strategy his forces seem prepared to adopt.
At the forefront of this approach is the concerted effort to strengthen the HNP. Otunge insists the mission goes beyond conventional policing—the end goal is to equip Haitian officers with the skills and resources necessary to stand firm against gang play. He acknowledges the police force's courageousness but points to their need for improved equipment to bolster their operational capabilities. While the groundwork is solidified through training, questions hover around how these principles can be consistently maintained.
The present operation has adopted four deployment phases, and Otunge reassures stakeholders of progress as personnel deepens engagement with their Haitian counterparts. He highlights the importance of restoring hope among Haitians who have long experienced despair due to the instability. With past wounds still raw from gang incursions, the mission's success is desperately needed to restore public confidence.
Lingering skepticism about the long-term sustainability of the MSS remains a focal point. While Operation MSS is projected to continue its operations through the end of September 2024, Otunge remains steadfast, assuring, “Our presence will be felt, and we are determined to restore order and security.” He also bears the weight of his mandates—both from leadership back home and the Haitian population reliant on their success.
With the mission firmly focused on the reality of Haiti’s struggles, there’s hope among the MSS personnel and some elements of the international community. By solidifying partnerships, attracting investments, and integrating broader multinational participation, Otunge expresses firm optimism for success. Will the Kenyans transform the tides of hope against despair? Only time will tell, but for now, the Kenyan commitment to restoring order remains resolute amid the turbulence of Haiti’s uncertain future.
