UN-Backed Haiti Security Mission Faces Shortfalls as Commander Appeals for International Support

 Port-au-Prince, June 27 — Marking one year since the first deployment of international forces to Haiti under the United Nations-backed Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, the commander of the effort has called on the global community to bolster its contributions in the face of persistent gang violence and operational shortfalls.

Major General Godfrey Otunge, commander of the MSS mission led by Kenya, addressed reporters in the Haitian capital on Thursday, outlining the ongoing challenges the mission faces in meeting its objectives. The MSS was established in response to a formal request by Haiti’s government in 2022, seeking urgent international assistance to combat entrenched armed gangs destabilizing the nation.

"As a new model funded by voluntary contributions, the mission faces considerable challenges—including in funding, personnel, and logistics. These are being addressed to ensure we meet our operational goals within the set timeline," Otunge said.

While the United Nations initially envisioned a force of approximately 2,500 personnel, actual deployment remains below half that figure. Despite early pledges totaling over 3,000 troops, the current strength stands at 991, comprising mostly Kenyan forces along with contingents from Guatemala (150), El Salvador (78), Jamaica (23), the Bahamas (6), and Belize (2).

In a recent briefing to the UN Security Council, Kenyan President William Ruto acknowledged the logistical and infrastructure limitations that have hampered deployment. He noted that a significant number of troops remain on standby due to inadequate support frameworks and that the mission currently operates with less than 30% of the planned equipment and operational capabilities.

Despite these constraints, Otunge highlighted key progress. “We have successfully established two strategic operational bases in the Artibonite department, the region most severely impacted by gang activity outside Port-au-Prince,” he stated.

However, Haitian leaders have continued to press for the MSS mission to be elevated to the status of a formal UN peacekeeping operation, which would unlock greater funding and logistical support. That proposal has stalled in the Security Council, facing resistance from Russia and China.

The mission comes at a time of profound national crisis. Gang violence has displaced more than 1.3 million Haitians, exacerbating hunger, insecurity, and the collapse of essential services. Several hospitals have been forced to close, and much of the judiciary, government, and economy remains in paralysis.

As the humanitarian and security situation deteriorates further, pressure is mounting on the international community to act decisively. Otunge’s appeal for renewed and expanded global support underscores the growing urgency to stabilize Haiti and restore governance in a country on the brink.