The U.S. government is intensifying its military support for Kenyan forces deployed in Haiti, as part of a broader effort to stabilize the Caribbean nation plagued by gang violence and political instability. The U.S. Southern Command announced the delivery of 24 additional Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles to Kenyan personnel leading the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti. This delivery, facilitated by U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo planes, is intended to bolster the operational capabilities of the Kenyan forces as they engage in efforts to restore security in areas dominated by heavily armed gangs.
This latest shipment of armored vehicles, along with 34 Overhead Gunner Protection Kits, will augment the existing fleet of 10 U.S.-provided MRAPs. These vehicles are specifically designed to protect personnel from ambushes and IEDs, and the added turrets will enhance the tactical field view during joint operations with the Haitian National Police (HNP). The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has also allocated contractors to install the turrets on the armored vehicles, ensuring that the Kenyan-led mission is well-equipped to handle the complex security challenges in Haiti.
https://x.com/redstreamnet/status/1829107017786474966
The Kenyan deployment to Haiti, which began earlier this year, marks a significant international effort to bring stability to a country that has been in turmoil since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021. The U.S. played a pivotal role in organizing this mission, which includes Kenyan troops in a "policing" role, though not under the UN Peacekeepers' mandate. This distinction is crucial, as previous UN missions in Haiti have been marred by controversies, including a cholera outbreak and widespread allegations of sexual abuse.
Washington's commitment to the Kenyan-led operation is substantial, with the Biden administration authorizing financial support, equipment, and training for the mission. The U.S. has already provided over $300 million to support these efforts, a clear indication of the strategic importance the U.S. places on stabilizing Haiti.
https://x.com/GachungaK/status/1828519314208759825
The U.N. Security Council had earlier authorized the formation of the MSS mission to assist the HNP in re-establishing security and creating conditions conducive to holding free and fair elections in Haiti.
Despite the robust support, the mission has faced significant challenges. Kenyan forces experienced setbacks during operations in the Haitian town of Ganthier, where they were forced to withdraw after encountering difficulties due to the lack of proper equipment, particularly turrets on their MRAPs. This incident underscored the harsh realities on the ground and the complexities involved in restoring order in Haiti.
As the MSS mission continues, Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille has emphasized that the operation will not yield quick results, urging patience as the forces work to reclaim control over areas dominated by gangs. The situation remains fluid, with nearly 600,000 people displaced by the ongoing conflict and a severe humanitarian crisis exacerbating the challenges faced by the security forces.
The U.S. and its allies are keenly aware of the stakes involved in this mission. The success or failure of the Kenyan-led operation could have significant implications for Haiti's future and the broader stability of the Caribbean region. As the situation develops, the international community will be watching closely to see if the U.S.-backed mission can bring about the much-needed peace and stability that has eluded Haiti for years.
Get out of Haiti. We have given 300million to idiots. 10 MRAPS and armored turrets for them, another 30million. It was a French colony, why are we trying to fix. You could have given $1.00 to every legal American or helped take care of US vets. Remember, America First. Let’s go Trump!