Kenya has announced a phased reduction of its police personnel in Haiti, following more than a year of leadership in a mission intended to combat rampant gang violence. This decision comes as the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, initially led by Kenya, transitions responsibilities to the new United Nations-backed Gang Suppression Force (GSF). According to Kenyan Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, the deployment of Kenyan officers has notably contributed to enhancing the capabilities of the Haitian National Police, securing key installations, and establishing a foundation for a sustainable international security arrangement in the country.

The initiative began in 2024, marking Kenya's commitment to leading the MSS mission with support from the UN and multiple international collaborators. At the height of the operations, the Kenyan contingent in Haiti swelled to over 700 officers. Sing’Oei underscored the positive impact of this mission, emphasizing that the presence of Kenyan police has been instrumental in making significant strides towards stabilizing the security situation, which has been challenged by violent gang activities across the nation.

As Kenya transitions away from this pivotal role in Haiti, the implications of this drawdown may affect the security landscape in the region, especially as the new GSF takes over. The ability of the GSF to maintain and build on the progress made by the former Kenyan-led mission will be critical in determining the future stability of Haiti, which has faced persistent disruptions due to gang-related violence. The ongoing situation warrants close attention from international observers as it unfolds, given its broader implications for regional security and cooperative international efforts.