Kenya and the United States have reaffirmed their close security partnership as both governments honoured Kenyan police officers who served in the multinational security mission in Haiti.
The ceremony, organised by the US government, was held on Thursday at the National Police College, Embakasi ‘A’ Campus in Nairobi.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said the recognition underscored the depth of Kenya–US diplomatic and economic ties, anchored on shared democratic values and long-standing security cooperation.
He expressed gratitude to the US government for its support of the Kenyan-led Multinational Security Support Mission, describing it as critical to the mission’s success.
Murkomen said the officers demonstrated exceptional bravery and professionalism by serving in difficult and high-risk conditions in Haiti.
He noted that their deployment contributed to restoring order in parts of Port-au-Prince, securing key infrastructure, reopening major roads and enabling humanitarian agencies to access affected communities.
“Their service reflects Kenya’s unwavering commitment to regional and global peace,” Murkomen said, adding that the mission showcased the capability of the National Police Service to operate effectively in complex international environments.
The Cabinet Secretary said Kenya will continue playing a central role in the newly established Gang Suppression Force in Haiti, as international efforts shift towards sustaining gains made against armed gangs.
He commended the United States for continued collaboration with Kenya, particularly in training and equipping police officers for both domestic and international operations.
US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau, who attended the ceremony, joined Kenyan officials in recognising the officers’ contribution to stabilisation efforts in Haiti.
Also present were US Chargé d’Affaires Susan M. Burns, National Security Advisor Monica Juma, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, Deputy Inspector General of the Administration Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, and Deputy Inspector General of the Kenya Police Service Eliud Lagat.
Kenya’s leadership of the Haiti mission has positioned the country as a key security partner on the global stage, reinforcing its growing role in international peace and stability operations.