The Kenya-led security mission in Haiti is facing serious setbacks as the United Nations warns of escalating instability in the Caribbean nation. With just days left before the mandate of the UN Integrated Office in Haiti expires, officials say the country is sliding closer to total collapse.
How Dire Is the Situation on the Ground?
Despite Kenya’s efforts to maintain order through the Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, UN officials paint a bleak picture. Organized gangs have taken control of nearly 90 percent of Port-au-Prince, crippling state authority. Miroslav Jenča, Assistant Secretary-General at the UN, said, “We have continued to witness a sharp erosion of state authority and the rule of law… gangs have only strengthened their foothold, pushing the situation closer to the brink.”
Hospitals, airports, and seaports are operational again under the MSS, according to Kenya’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, Amb. Yabesh Monari. However, he added, “Without forward operating bases, the gangs come back.” While the original plan called for 12 forward bases, only three have been established so far.
Why Is the Kenya-Led MSS Struggling?
The MSS, led by Kenya with 735 of its 991 deployed officers, is operating at less than 30 percent of its intended capacity. Amb. Monari stated, “This discussion must lead to clear actionable guidance on the future of MSS.” A shortage of armored vehicles, spare parts, air support, and communication tools has severely limited the force’s effectiveness. UNODC Director-General Ghada Waly emphasized, “Despite their best efforts, the MSS and Haitian National Police have been unable to make headway in restoring state authority.”
UN Secretary-General António Guterres had earlier warned the Security Council that many MSS vehicles are unfit for urban operations and that the mission depends almost entirely on donors. Half of its combat vehicles are now non-functional due to a lack of parts.
What’s Next for the Mission and Haiti?
With a surge in private security firms and vigilante groups further complicating the situation, UN leaders are urging immediate action. The proposed solution includes establishing a UN support office to handle logistics and operational needs. But as political tides shift in the United States, with Donald Trump warning against continued fiscal burden, funding remains uncertain.
Without a clear commitment from international donors and an expanded presence on the ground, the Kenya-led mission may not survive the mounting challenges. The urgency is clear: without robust support, Haiti risks descending into complete anarchy.
By Lucky Anyanje
