President William Ruto has praised the Kenyan-led Multilateral Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti, saying its impact has been “historic” despite being severely underfunded and operating at less than half strength.
Speaking at a high-level meeting on Haiti during the 80th UN General Assembly in New York, Ruto outlined the mission’s key victories: reclaiming the main airport and port from gangs, reopening major roads, restoring police headquarters and the national academy, and enabling schools and hospitals to function again.
“These gains are proof that Haiti’s security challenge can be solved,” Ruto said, adding that the retreat of armed groups showed they were “cowards by nature” when confronted by organized security forces.
The MSS, launched earlier this year under Kenya’s leadership, was created to tackle years of gang violence that had crippled the Caribbean nation.
But with its UN mandate set to expire in just 11 days, concerns remain about sustaining the progress.
Ruto urged the UN Security Council, particularly its five permanent members, to ensure a smooth handover to a successor mission.
He stressed three essentials for lasting success in Haiti: a clear mandate, predictable funding and equipment, and reliable logistical support.
“Without these, the gains made will be lost and the momentum for restoring security will vanish,” he warned.
Kenya has pledged to remain engaged in Haiti’s stabilization efforts, with Ruto reaffirming his government’s commitment to work alongside Haitians in their quest for peace.
“Haitians are part of our shared humanity and deserve the same security and dignity as any other people,” he said.
The mission has become a focal point of global security debates, with Kenya positioning itself as a key player in international peacekeeping beyond Africa.
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