Kenya calls on UN to explore innovative funding strategies for Haiti mission
By Mwangi Maina |
Mudavadi urged the Security Council to consider extending the mission's mandate, which ends next month, for another year.
Kenya is urging the United Nations to explore innovative strategies for providing essential resources to the Kenya-led mission in Haiti, which currently lacks adequate equipment and funding.
During a partners' meeting hosted by the US in New York, Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign & Diaspora Affairs Musalia Mudavadi, called for alternative funding methods to address Haiti's security, economic, and humanitarian needs.
"I urged the council to explore innovative approaches for the United Nations to provide essential resources required to sustain and build upon the progress made by the MSS," Mudavadi stated. He was joined at the meeting by Ruto's national security advisor, Monicah Juma.
"Joint patrols with the Haitian National Police in key areas of Port-au-Prince, including downtown, have significantly bolstered the protection of civilians. The Mission has also played a crucial role in clearing roadblocks and opening access routes, thereby facilitating a smoother flow of humanitarian aid to those in need.
Mudavadi highlighted the shortage of personnel on the ground, noting that only 410 officers have been deployed out of the planned 2,500, which limits the mission's potential impact. He urged the Security Council to consider extending the mission's mandate, which ends next month, for another year.
President William Ruto earlier this week speaking at the Leader-Level Meeting of the Economic and Social Council Ad Hoc Advisory Group on Haiti at the United Nations Headquarters in New York called on the international community to step up its assistance.
International backing
He emphasised that the mission, which has led to significant improvements in Haiti, must continue to receive the necessary backing to sustain its progress. The mission's mandate is set to expire next month.
"The international community must intensify its support for the mission, which has yielded significant positive outcomes—reviving economic activity and instilling hope in Haiti," Ruto said during the meeting.
The group, mandated to provide advice on the long-term development strategy for Haiti, focuses on promoting the country's socioeconomic recovery.
The US, the main backer and funder of the mission, has provided an additional $160 million in foreign assistance.
Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti have raised concerns about a lack of equipment and delayed wages, further complicating the mission's ability to operate effectively.
Haiti has been engulfed in violence for years, with armed groups—often linked to political and business leaders—fighting for control of territory and influence.
As of August, more than 578,000 Haitians had been internally displaced, largely due to the ongoing violence, according to data from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM).
Kenya's call to the UN comes at a critical time, as the situation in Haiti remains dire and the mission's future hinges on renewed international support and innovative funding mechanisms.
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