230 Kenyan officers arrive home from Haiti as nation honours their heroic service
A contingent of 230 Kenyan officers has returned from Haiti after a tough security mission as another 230 deploy, underscoring Kenya’s ongoing role in stabilising the violence-hit nation.
A contingent of 230 Kenyan police officers has returned from Haiti, marking the first group to come home since their deployment in June 2024.
The mission, during which three officers lost their lives, formed part of Kenya’s support for internationally backed security operations in the Caribbean nation.
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The returning officers were welcomed with celebrations and praised for their professionalism and dedication throughout the mission.
National Security Advisor Monica Juma commended the officers for their service, saying they had undertaken the mission with professionalism, integrity, loyalty to Kenya and service to Haiti.
“We are delighted. I want to sincerely thank all of you for your contribution to the Republic in restoring peace and order, together with the Kenya Defence Force, the National Intelligence Service, and the National Police Service. This partnership is a true testament that when we work together as a team, we can achieve great results,” she said.
Served diligently in Haiti
Deputy Inspector General Eliud Lagat also praised the officers, noting, “You have made us proud as a country and a service. You have served diligently in Haiti.”
Senior Superintendent of Police Clappeton Imbiru, who served as deputy collegiate commander during the mission, said the team faced extremely difficult conditions in Haiti. He said the government was struggling to maintain control, with gangs dominating large parts of the country.
“We found a country that was almost collapsing, with a government nearly overrun by gangs. Roads were barricaded, and civilians were extorted. Our Kenyan training helped us operate above the bar compared to the gangs’ activities. We secured critical areas like the airport and police academy, allowing local police training to continue. The mission was accomplished because we pushed security forward in Haiti, and our presence was greatly appreciated by the local population,” he said.
He urged Kenyans to value the peace they enjoy at home, warning that even minor crimes, if ignored, can escalate into serious problems.
“Peace has no price. Small crimes can grow into large problems if ignored, as we saw in Haiti. Kenyans should not take their safety for granted,” he said.
Kenya, however, continues to play a central role in stabilising Haiti. A new contingent of 230 officers was deployed on Monday to reinforce the Haitian National Police following the expansion of the Gang Suppression Force mandate in October 2025. GSF Force Commander Godfrey Otunge said the deployment demonstrated Kenya’s commitment.
“Kenya stands with Haiti, for as long as it takes, until peace prevails,” he said.
Haitian officials welcomed the reinforcement, saying it was critical to reopening routes, securing humanitarian corridors and protecting civilians amid ongoing violence.
The United Nations reports that at least 3,141 people were killed in Haiti in the first half of this year.
Kenya has pledged sustained support as part of the multinational mission.
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