The National Police Service (NPS) has issued a strong rebuttal to claims questioning the preparedness and effectiveness of its police officers deployed to Haiti under the United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission.
In a press statement released on Tuesday, April 15, 2025, NPS described as unfounded, false, and unpatriotica report by a local daily that cast doubt on the operational capability of Kenyan personnel serving in the Caribbean nation.
“The National Police Service (NPS) has noted with concern an article appearing in the Daily Nation on 15th April 2025, questioning the operational capability of Kenyan police officers serving under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti. The Service categorically refutes these unfounded, false, and unpatriotic claims,” NPS said.
The deployment, which began in June 2024, followed the adoption of United Nations Security Council Resolution 2699 (2023), authorising a Kenyan-led force to assist the Haitian National Police in tackling rampant gang violence that has destabilised the country for years.
The NPS stated that officers deployed to Haiti received comprehensive training, including accelerated French language instruction and preparation in other essential operational areas.
“Prior to deployment, the officers underwent rigorous training, covering a wide range of critical areas, including Firearms proficiency, Public order management, International human rights and humanitarian law, Fundamental principles of peacekeeping, and French language training. This comprehensive preparation fully equipped them for the mission,” the statement said.
The NPS also emphasised that Kenyan officers deployed to Haiti are highly trained and fully equipped with the necessary protective gear and tactical armour.
The statement highlighted that officers on the mission have access to tactical and surveillance equipment meeting international standards, including mine-resistant vehicles, helicopters, drones, night-vision goggles, ballistic gear, and sufficient ammunition.
“The officers have been provided with tactical vehicles (including MRAPs), ballistic helmets, bulletproof vests, ammunition in sufficient quantities, as well as helicopters, night-vision goggles, and drones, all of which meet international standards,” NPS said.
The MSS Mission in Haiti, the NPS said, continues to make progress despite operating in one of the world’s most volatile urban environments.
“The Kenya-led MSS Mission and the Haitian National Police have intensified joint operations to reduce crime and violence, fostering a more secure environment. This marks a significant milestone in Haiti’s path to stability, despite the persistent threats posed by armed gangs. Kenyan officers remain steadfast in their commitment to restoring security and stability in Haiti.”
The response comes at a time when the mission in Haiti has drawn both praise and scepticism.
While some international observers have lauded the Kenyan contingent for bolstering Haiti’s fragile security apparatus, critics have questioned the wisdom and logistics of a long-term deployment so far from home.
Kenya’s leadership of the mission is seen as both a bold step in continental diplomacy and a test of its evolving role on the global stage.
As violence continues to grip Haiti’s capital and beyond, the performance of the Kenyan forces will likely remain under close scrutiny.
Martin Oduor
The alchemist of literary works – a master wordsmith with a proven record of transforming the raw materials of language into a rich tapestry of emotion, thought, and imagination.
View all posts by Martin Oduor