US Military’s Strategic Delivery to Kenyan Forces in Haiti: What’s Happening?

The U.S. military bolsters Kenyan peacekeeping efforts in Haiti with a significant delivery of armored vehicles, raising questions about the mission’s future and Haiti’s stability.

At a Glance

U.S. delivers 24 MRAP MaxxPro armored vehicles to Kenyan police in Haiti
Delivery includes 34 Overhead Gunner Protection Kits to enhance field view
Kenyan troops faced setbacks, withdrawing from Ganthier in late July
Nearly 600,000 Haitians internally displaced, 5 million facing severe hunger
Mission’s initial 12-month mandate ends in October, future uncertain

U.S. Reinforces Kenyan Peacekeepers with Advanced Equipment

In a move to strengthen international peacekeeping efforts, the U.S. military has delivered 24 MRAP MaxxPro armored vehicles to Kenyan police forces operating in Haiti. This substantial reinforcement, transported via U.S. Air Force C-17 cargo aircraft, adds to an existing fleet of 10 U.S.-provided MRAPs, significantly boosting the Kenyan contingent’s capabilities.

The delivery includes 34 Overhead Gunner Protection Kits, or turrets, designed to enhance the vehicles’ field view during operations. This addition addresses a critical shortcoming of the initial MRAPs, which lacked towers, limiting their combat effectiveness. The improved vehicles are expected to provide better protection and operational capacity for the Kenyan forces as they navigate Haiti’s challenging security landscape.

Some 400 Kenyan police, leading a U.N.-ratified security mission mandated to fight heavily armed gangs that have taken over most of the capital, recently deployed to Haiti.https://t.co/xhGiGl8nJ7

— Nation Africa (@NationAfrica) August 24, 2024

Challenges and Setbacks in the Haitian Mission

The reinforcement comes at a crucial time, following a significant setback in late July when Kenyan troops withdrew from Ganthier. This retreat highlighted the mission’s challenges and the volatile situation in Haiti. The violence in Ganthier alone displaced nearly 6,000 residents by August 1, underscoring the urgent need for improved security measures.

Haiti’s dire situation is further emphasized by the staggering numbers: close to 600,000 people are internally displaced, with nearly 5 million suffering from severe hunger. These statistics paint a grim picture of the humanitarian crisis that the peacekeeping mission aims to address.

International Support and Future Prospects

The U.S. isn’t alone in its support for the mission. The French government has also contributed, delivering 24 APCs with turrets to the Haiti National Police. Additionally, Kenya has requested more fighting equipment, including fighter choppers, signaling a potential shift towards a more offensive stance against gangs in the mission’s second phase.

As the initial 12-month mandate approaches its October end date, questions arise about the mission’s future. Jamaica and the Bahamas are evaluating the situation for potential deployment, which could bring much-needed additional support. However, concerns have been raised by Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille about delays in funding, warning that lack of timely support could undermine the operation and the transitional government’s credibility.

Despite these challenges, the Kenyan police have made some progress since their arrival on June 25, helping to pacify areas in Port-au-Prince and taking control of a local port, a national hospital, and a major road. Their mandate includes supporting the Haitian National Police to re-establish security and create conditions for free and fair elections.

The U.S. has provided more than $300 million to support the Multinational Security Support mission, demonstrating a significant commitment to Haiti’s stability. As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping that this increased support will lead to meaningful improvements in Haiti’s security and humanitarian situation.