The United States and Canada have voiced significant concerns over the international community’s lag in fulfilling financial pledges for the Kenyan-led mission in Haiti.
During a United Nations Security Council meeting on July 3, it was revealed that only Ksh2.7 billion (USD21 million) of the targeted Ksh12 billion (USD118 million) had been raised.
This shortfall threatens to undermine the effectiveness of the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, which was approved by the Council on October 2, 2023.Linda Thomas-Greenfield, the US ambassador to the United Nations, emphasized the urgency of the situation.
“We call on all international partners to do more and give more,” she stated, highlighting the necessity of the funds for ensuring peace and stability in Haiti.
The money is intended to help Haitians go about their daily lives—going to work, school, or places of worship—without the looming threat of violence.
The Security Council discussed the potential challenges the mission could face if the pledged funds are not raised promptly.
Kenya is set to deploy an additional 600 police officers to Haiti, with six other countries also showing willingness to send police contingents to the troubled Caribbean nation.
However, the entire mission could be jeopardized without sufficient financial backing from UN member states.
Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations Bob Rae echoed these concerns, urging the international community to uphold their commitments.
“Member states have to walk the talk when it comes to supporting the mission,” Rae said, stressing that peace and stability in Haiti depend on the multinational force’s ability to counteract violent gangs.
The United States has taken proactive steps in supporting the Kenyan police contingent.
This support includes training, construction of barracks, and equipping the Kenyan officers with modern military equipment from the Pentagon’s stockpile.
Despite these efforts, the mission’s success hinges on the collective action and financial contributions of the international community.
As the deadline for deploying additional forces draws nearer, the urgency for adequate funding becomes more critical.
The UN Security Council continues to advocate for the necessary financial support to ensure the mission’s success and the restoration of peace and stability in Haiti.
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