The United States has praised Kenya for its role in supporting efforts to stabilise Haiti, describing the country’s contribution as significant in helping prevent further deterioration of security in the Caribbean nation.
United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Kenya has been a key partner across multiple areas, including counterterrorism in Africa, but highlighted its engagement in Haiti as particularly notable.
He said Kenya had “carried a huge burden” for nearly two years as the lead country in international efforts to help restore order in Haiti.
He added that without Kenya’s involvement, the situation in the country could have been far more challenging.
“Our gratitude for the role they have played is extraordinary,” Rubio said, noting that the progress achieved would serve as a foundation for the next phase of Washington’s strategy in Haiti.
The United States is preparing to transition to a gang suppression force aimed at curbing violence and rebuilding stability.
Rubio said Kenya’s participation has helped make this possible, but he emphasised that Nairobi cannot be expected to shoulder the responsibility alone.
He called on countries in the region and the wider international community to contribute to the mission, stressing that continued support is crucial during Haiti’s delicate transition.
President William Ruto reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to long-term support for stability efforts in Haiti.
He said Kenya will continue to contribute to the upcoming gang suppression force and help safeguard the progress made over the past two years.
Ruto noted that Kenya’s deployment had provided valuable experience that will be important for the next phase of the mission.
“Kenya will continue to be available in Haiti to do what we can to ensure that the experience we have gathered will be of benefit to the gang suppression force,” he said.
“I did promise that we are not going to walk away from Haiti.”
The President also acknowledged the United States’ support, saying Kenya’s operations would not have been possible without Washington’s backing.
“We would not have succeeded in Haiti if it were not for the support, the friendship, and the partnership of the United States,” he said.
Ruto joined US officials in urging countries in the Americas and the broader international community to share responsibility for the next phase of stabilising Haiti.
He called on members of the Organization of American States to take a leading role, encouraging contributions including personnel, equipment, and funding.
The President stressed that Kenya is committed to ensuring a smooth transition to the new security structure and will remain engaged beyond the handover to protect the gains already achieved.
