Kenya has deployed 217 additional National Police Service officers to Haiti.
These officers, drawn from specialized units, are part of Kenya’s ongoing mission to restore peace and security in the Caribbean nation.
Among them, a small group of female officers captured attention, symbolizing a bold new chapter in international peacekeeping.
The government confirmed that future deployments would feature an all-female-led security team, a move aimed at showcasing Kenya’s progressive approach to global peace missions.
The Ministry of Interior revealed that alongside the female officers, personnel from the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU) would also be part of the reinforcements.
In a statement, the Ministry emphasized Kenya’s dedication to supporting Haiti through diverse specialized teams.
Among these, the all-female Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team stands out due to their unique training and capabilities.
The female SWAT members have undergone rigorous preparation, equipping them to handle high-risk situations such as counter-terrorism operations, hostage rescues, and armed confrontations.
The introduction of an all-female SWAT team is not new to Kenya.
Locally, this team was first deployed in 2012 in Nairobi, where it sparked mixed reactions as the country’s first initiative of its kind.
This decision was a response to escalating security threats, including terrorism and organized crime.
Their deployment to Haiti is expected to highlight Kenya’s growing reputation as a trusted partner in international peacekeeping.
It also aligns with the government’s vision to expand the roles of women in critical security missions.
The total number of Kenyan officers deployed to Haiti now stands at 617.
This includes an initial batch of 400 officers sent in June last year.
The Kenyan troops, operating under the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission and in collaboration with the Haitian National Police, have made big progress in reducing crime and violence.
A notable achievement came on October 2 last year when schools and colleges in Haiti reopened, a milestone in the country’s journey toward normalcy.
Questions have been raised about the role of the ASTU unit, which traditionally handles livestock theft in Kenya, in a foreign country like Haiti.
However, the government has not provided specific details about their operations there.
In September last year, the United Nations Security Council extended the authorization for the Kenya-led MSS mission for one year.
This decision underscores the global community’s confidence in Kenya’s ability to contribute meaningfully to Haiti’s stability.
By participating in such missions, Kenya not only reinforces its position as a reliable peacekeeping partner but also demonstrates its commitment to fostering global security and cooperation.
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