The United States has implemented a stop work order on its funding for the Kenya-led mission in Haiti, affecting USD 13.3 million in aid. This action occurs despite assurances from President Ruto of US support in combating gang violence. The funding freeze raises serious concerns about the mission’s operational capacity and the security situation in Haiti, underscoring the need for renewed international aid.
The United States has halted funding for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, prompting a funding crisis for the United Nations-backed operation. Stéphane Dujarric, spokesperson for the UN Secretary-General, confirmed that the funding freeze affects USD 13.3 million in intended aid. In an official notification, the US requested an immediate stop work order on its financial contributions, potentially jeopardizing the mission’s effectiveness.
This development follows recent comments by Kenyan President William Ruto, who had asserted that the US was committed to supporting efforts to combat gang violence in Haiti. During a church service in Nairobi, Ruto stated, “I am very proud that even President Trump, under the new administration, supports Kenya’s mission in Haiti…to help the men, women, and children of that nation experience peace and stability.” However, the funding freeze directly contradicts this assurance given by Ruto.
Kenya has contributed 600 police officers to the Haiti mission, with the latest group arriving in Port-au-Prince on January 19. The persistent funding gaps have posed significant challenges since the Kenyan troop deployment began in June 2024. Addressing these concerns was a top priority for President Ruto during his recent State Visit to the United States, where he also met Kenyan troops in Haiti to reassure them of continued support.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has consistently called for increased international support, warning that Port-au-Prince is at risk of being overtaken by gangs. In late January, Guterres noted that further delays in support could lead to a “catastrophic” failure in Haiti’s security framework. While the Biden administration and Canada have made contributions, the total fundraising efforts have still fallen short of the necessary funds required to maintain the security mission.
Overall, the recent freeze of US funding for the Kenya-led mission undermines efforts to stabilize security in Haiti. Despite previous commitments and a strong relationship between the US and Kenya, the halt in financial support raises serious questions about the future of the mission and the safety of the Haitian people. Immediate action is essential to prevent the worsening of the security situation in Haiti as the mission struggles with financial uncertainties.
The ongoing security challenges in Haiti have prompted a multinational response led by Kenya. Despite previous commitments, the cessation of funding by the United States raises concerns about the mission’s sustainability. Repeated warnings from the UN highlight the urgency for international support to prevent the potential collapse of Haiti’s security institutions, which are increasingly threatened by gang violence.
The suspension of US funding for the Kenya-led Haiti mission significantly complicates international efforts to restore order and stability in the region. President Ruto’s reassurances regarding US support stand in stark contrast to the recent funding freeze. Consequently, there is an urgent need for renewed commitments from both the international community and the US to ensure the mission’s success and to protect the Haitian populace from escalating violence.
Original Source: allafrica.com
