Haiti's Multi-National Security Support Mission rebrands as Gang Suppression Force, expands mandate

The Multi-National Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti has revamped its colours and name to the new Gang Suppression Force (GSF). (Photo: GSF)

By Mary Wambui
Thursday, October 16, 2025

The Multi-National Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti has revamped its colours and name to the new Gang Suppression Force (GSF), signalling Kenya's transition to the new mission that came into effect on October 2, following the end of the mandate of the MSS mission.

On September 30, the United Nations Security Council Resolution 2793 (2025), adopted resolution 2793, which authorised the transition of the (MSS) mission into the newly established GGSF for an initial period of 12 months.

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"During this transition, operations and patrols have proceeded seamlessly, with all former MSS personnel successfully integrated into the GSF framework, hence ensuring no security vacuum that could be exploited by criminal gangs. The synergy is uninterrupted and stronger than ever."

As part of this transition, the mission is rebranding all former MSS social media handles, communication channels, logos, flag and insignia to reflect its new identity and mandate.

"This transition reflects the lessons learned from the MSS mission and introduces an expanded mandate and strengthened operational framework for the GSF," the force said on Thursday.

Kenyan police officers deployed under the MSS mission are now part of the GSF, which runs under an expanded Mandate and core responsibilities.

The GSF is scheduled to have an enhanced Capacity and Composition with the deployment of up to 5,500 uniformed personnel and 50 civilian staff that will ensure wider operational reach and improved coordination.

It also has the mandate to run independent and coordinated operations.

"GSF has the authority to conduct intelligence-led, targeted counter-gang operations, either independently or jointly with the Haitian National Police and the Haitian Armed Forces, with the authority to arrest and detain suspected gang members in accordance with international law and human rights standards," it said.

Further, it will engage in the protection of Critical Infrastructure and Humanitarian Access with responsibilities to safeguard key facilities such as airports, ports, hospitals and schools; protect transit routes; and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.

It will also offer support to National Institutions by strengthening the institutional and operational capacities of the HNP and FAd'H, while facilitating conditions conducive to free and fair elections and long-term stability.

Regarding the establishment of the United Nations Support Office in Haiti (UNSOH), the force said that component will be fully operational within six months to provide essential logistical, medical, and operational support, ensuring the effective implementation of the GSF's mandate.

"The GSF continues to work closely with the HNP and FAd'H, including recent logistical operations supporting police officers in the Artibonite Region. Of particular note is the enhanced 24-hour security now put in place at the Hôpital Albert Schweitzer in Deschapelles, in the Artibonite Valley, which serves approximately 350,000 people and maintains a 200-bed capacity," the force said.

Meanwhile, the USA government recently delivered 20 additional new Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), with five already deployed to the Artibonite area, demonstrating continued international confidence in and support for the GSF's mission.

"These reinforcements highlight the GSF's determination, under its strengthened mandate, to reshape the security environment and enhance operational effectiveness across Haiti," the statement adds.