Kenyan police officers undergo post-deployment training in Haiti with MSS support

The third group of Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti has begun post-deployment training to enhance their operational readiness and professionalism, addressing the unique security challenges they face in the region.

The training is part of the Multinational Security Support (MSS) initiative, aimed at ensuring officers are fully prepared for their mission.

Superintendent Charles Otieno, the director of training at MSS, said this in-theatre training follows pre-deployment training and is designed to equip officers with the practical skills needed to perform effectively in the field.

"This training is essential to familiarise officers with the specific demands of their mission and to clarify their roles," he said.

The training focuses on both tactical and non-tactical aspects to ensure comprehensive preparation.

The tactical component includes essential skills such as weapon handling, first aid using HFx-induced kits, and surveillance techniques with tools like drones and night vision goggles. These skills are critical for officers to navigate Haiti's complex security environment.

In addition to the tactical training, the programme emphasises non-tactical elements to enhance the officers' overall professionalism.

Effective delivery

"The non-tactical sessions cover areas like human rights education, general health awareness, and psychological counselling. The MSS regularly collaborates with partners like the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to ensure these modules are delivered effectively," Otieno said.

The training curriculum is developed based on insights from patrol reports, field experiences, and individual assessments.

This approach ensures that the training is relevant and addresses any operational challenges or gaps identified in the field.

To ensure the effectiveness of the training, MSS conducts post-training evaluations to measure its impact and make necessary adjustments.

This continuous feedback loop is vital for maintaining high standards of preparedness and professionalism among officers.

Superintendent Otieno reaffirmed MSS's commitment to preparing officers for success in their mission.

"We are dedicated to equipping our officers with the skills, knowledge, and mental resilience needed to handle any situation they may face and uphold the highest standards of professionalism," he said.

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FOB handed over to Guatemala team

On Wednesday, the National Police Service (NPS) team in Haiti handed over the third Forward Operating Base (FOB) to the Guatemala team, marking another milestone in the international security mission.

The facility, located at the regional office of the Far North for the General Inspectorate of the National Police of Haiti (IGPNH), was previously abandoned following gang attacks in the area.

On November 28, 2024, the MSS mission established the FOB at IGPNH to secure the coastline and surrounding areas.

It has since undergone extensive renovations funded by the International Narcotics and Law Enforcement Affairs (INL).

"The IGPNH FOB is a critical asset in the fight against gang activity in the region. It is designed to improve law enforcement response times in strategic areas, including the National Port, the Delmas district, and the porous coastline," the NPS said in a statement.

These zones have been hotspots for gang-led smuggling of weapons and narcotics, activities that have fuelled violence and criminal networks. The FOB was established to bring security services closer to the public, particularly in response to recent gang attacks in Solino and Delmas.

The MSS mission, headquartered in Port-au-Prince, is an international operation led by Kenya and authorised by the United Nations Security Council to assist the Haiti National Police in restoring peace, law, and order amid threats from criminal gangs.