Mission Impossible? Kenyan Officers’ Face Harsh Realities in Haiti.

Kenyan police deployed to Haiti as part of a UN-backed peacekeeping mission are reportedly facing significant challenges, including delayed salaries, harsh working conditions, and limited communication with their families. While officials initially denied claims of unpaid wages, reports indicate that payments were delayed due to administrative hurdles. The salaries are now expected to be disbursed shortly, according to mission officials.

The officers are also grappling with insufficient equipment and manpower to counteract the severe gang violence in Haiti, where criminal groups control approximately 85% of the capital, Port-au-Prince. This has led to operational difficulties, including the inability to respond effectively due to outdated or insufficient resources.

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Kenya's involvement in Haiti's peacekeeping effort has drawn scrutiny, with some questioning the feasibility and support mechanisms of the mission. Despite these issues, the Kenyan government has committed additional personnel to reinforce the mission, which is primarily funded by the United States and supported by other nations

The mission, authorized by the UN Security Council, has been plagued by financial constraints. The UN fund supporting the operation is significantly underfunded, with only $68 million of the required $589 million raised. Some officers reported receiving only partial payments without clear explanations, further lowering morale. Despite U.S. efforts to supply critical equipment, logistical and administrative delays persist, prompting concerns about the mission's sustainability and calls from some officers to return home until conditions improve.

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