The United States has stopped funding for the Kenya-led Haiti Multinational Security Support Mission, causing a funding crisis amid ongoing violence. UN officials confirmed the freeze impacts USD 13.3 million in aids. President Ruto reassured US commitment to support the mission, although funding remains a critical issue as 600 officers have been deployed, with obstacles in receiving adequate financial backing.
The United States has halted funding for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, which has raised concerns regarding a critical funding crisis for the initiative. The United Nations confirmed that this funding freeze affects USD 13.3 million in anticipated aid, as stated by Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General. The decision aligns with previous actions taken by former President Donald Trump to reduce foreign aid, despite recent assurances by President William Ruto of US support for Kenya’s mission in Haiti.
During a congregation in Nairobi, President Ruto expressed pride in the support received from the Trump administration, underscoring Kenya’s ongoing commitment to establishing stability in Haiti. Ruto emphasized the significance of the US-Kenya relationship, referring to it as “special,” and highlighted the collaborative efforts between the two nations. Furthermore, the Kenya-led mission remains crucial, with 600 police officers deployed to combat gang violence in Haiti, although funding challenges persist since their deployment began in June 2024.
President Ruto’s discussions with US leaders included a focus on addressing the funding requirements of the Haiti Mission. Prior to arriving in Washington, he visited Port-au-Prince to reassure Kenyan troops of ongoing support in light of delays for security provisions. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has voiced urgent needs for international assistance, warning that the capital, Port-au-Prince, could face turmoil without timely intervention from the global community, particularly amid reports of increasing gang activities.
While the Biden administration has contributed USD 15 million to support the Mission, the funding remains insufficient, as highlighted by contributions from Canada amounting to USD 1.7 million. The UN’s efforts have garnered only USD 110 million since the fund’s inception, which is inadequate to sustain the target of a 2,500-member security force. Thus far, among personnel-contributing countries, Kenya has committed to deploying 600 police officers, yet concerns regarding adequate financial backing persist as the mission progresses.
In summary, the stoppage of US funding for the Kenya-led mission has plunged the initiative into uncertainty, undermining efforts to restore order in Haiti. Despite claims of strong bilateral relations, the abrupt funding freeze poses a risk to the security objectives laid out by Kenyan and UN leaders, emphasizing the necessity for continued international cooperation to avert a possible humanitarian disaster in Haiti.
The Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti was established to assist in restoring peace amid the escalating gang violence that has plagued the nation. Kenya had pledged to send police officers to help stabilize the situation, drawing international cooperation and support. However, the sudden halt of funding by the United States raised red flags about the mission’s future viability and its capacity to meet its goals effectively, prompting calls for more robust international aid.
The cessation of financial support from the United States has thrown the Kenya-led mission in Haiti into disarray, potentially jeopardizing critical peace efforts. The ongoing commitment from Kenya remains steadfast, but without adequate international funding, the mission faces significant operational challenges. The situation in Haiti necessitates prompt global cooperation to ensure the safety and stability of its citizens against the backdrop of rising gang violence.
Original Source: allafrica.com
