Nairobi, Kenya| Kenyan President William Ruto confirmed on Thursday that the United States has exempted Kenya’s Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti from its recent foreign aid freeze.
The announcement ensures that Washington’s support for the mission remains intact despite a broader pause in U.S. federal assistance to other programs.
Ruto revealed that he had discussed Kenya-U.S. relations with U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation.
“The United States has specifically exempted the MSS mission from the aid freeze, recognizing its critical role in stabilizing Haiti and restoring order,” Ruto stated.
The confirmation comes amid growing concerns about the Biden administration’s temporary suspension of certain foreign aid programs as part of a broader policy review.
However, Kenya’s role in leading the UN-backed MSS mission in Haiti has been deemed a priority, ensuring continued logistical and financial support from Washington.
Kenya Expands Haiti Deployment
On the same day, Kenya deployed an additional 168 police officers to Haiti, reinforcing its peacekeeping efforts in the crisis-stricken Caribbean nation.
The deployment raises Kenya’s total contingent to 800 officers, approaching the UN-endorsed target of 1,000.
The MSS mission, led by Kenya, is tasked with restoring stability in Haiti, which has been plagued by gang violence, political turmoil, and humanitarian crises.
Geoffrey Otunge, the mission’s force commander, emphasized the commitment of Kenyan security personnel.
“Our mission remains fully committed to restoring peace in Haiti and supporting the Haitian people in rebuilding their country,” Otunge stated.
Regional Security Talks Also Addressed
Beyond Haiti, President Ruto also discussed security issues in Africa with Secretary Rubio, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
The United Nations has reported that more than 2,900 people have been killed in the DRC’s escalating violence, raising alarm over the humanitarian situation in the region.
Ruto underscored Kenya’s broader commitment to regional stability, stating that Nairobi remains engaged in diplomatic and peacekeeping efforts across Africa.
Kenya has been actively involved in mediation efforts and peacekeeping operations in conflict zones, including the DRC and Somalia.
Kenya’s Leading Role in Global Peacekeeping
Kenya’s leadership in the Haiti MSS mission has reinforced its reputation as a key player in international peacekeeping.
The country has a long history of contributing troops and police officers to United Nations peace missions worldwide.
The Haiti deployment represents one of the most significant international policing efforts undertaken by Kenya, highlighting its growing influence in global security affairs.
With the U.S. reaffirming its support for the MSS mission, Kenya’s role in Haiti is set to continue uninterrupted, reinforcing its commitment to global peace and security.
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