By Brian Kiprono - Reporter
Kenya, 10 December 2025 - Kenya on Wednesday celebrated the return of 230 police officers who had spent the past 18 months helping stabilise Haiti, with leaders praising their courage and calm professionalism in a mission often defined by uncertainty and danger.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen led a reception for the officers in Nairobi, describing their conduct as a reflection of Kenya’s policing values—discipline, integrity and respect for human life.
He said the team had not only represented the country with honour but had also helped restore hope in one of the world’s most fragile environments.
“The success of our efforts in Haiti has been recognised here at home and abroad,” Murkomen said.
“It reaffirms what we already know—Kenyan police officers remain among the most capable and committed professionals on the global stage.”
Their arrival came just a day after another group of 230 officers departed for the Caribbean nation. They will reinforce Kenyan teams now serving under the newly established Gang Suppression Force, a structure that replaced the Multinational Security Support Mission under which the returning officers had served.
Kenya’s involvement in Haiti began in June 2024, when the first group was deployed under then–Interior CS Kithure Kindiki (now the Deputy President).
Since then, the mission has evolved, but its core purpose has remained constant: helping Haitian authorities stabilise communities, reopen vital roads and strengthen local policing.
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President William Ruto recently assured US Secretary of State Marco Rubio that Kenya remains committed to a responsible, orderly transition. “Kenya will not leave Haiti in a disorganised manner,” the President said—an assurance echoed by senior security officials.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja commended the officers for maintaining discipline and observing strict human rights standards, even in the most challenging situations.
He acknowledged delays in the payment of some allowances but assured the team that these would be settled once funds from the United Nations are released.
He also paid tribute to personnel who lost their lives during the mission.
“The National Police Service salutes your resilience and sacrifice,” Kanja said.
“We also honour the brave colleagues who made the ultimate sacrifice for peace.”
As the officers reunited with families, the mood was one of relief, pride and quiet accomplishment—an understated end to a difficult but impactful chapter of Kenya’s international peace efforts.
