- Kenya's journey in peacekeeping traces back to the 1960s when it actively participated in the United Nations Operation in the Congo (ONUC).
- Former President Daniel Arap Moi's legacy is particularly intertwined with this pursuit of peaceful solutions, earning him recognition for his tireless efforts in bringing warring parties to the table.
Image: HANDOUT
Kenya has been instrumental in multilateral peace support operations contributing over 55,000 troops and other personnel to various peacekeeping missions in around 40 countries.
The country also contributes to the training of peacekeepers from different countries at the International Peace Support Training Centre in Nairobi.
There is no doubt that since its independence in 1963, Kenya has carved a unique niche for itself on the global stage – a leading contributor to international peace and security.
Kenya's journey in peacekeeping traces back to the 1960s when it actively participated in the United Nations Operation in the Congo (ONUC). This early baptism by fire set the precedent for Kenya's unwavering dedication to peacekeeping efforts, not just in Africa, but across the world.
From Somalia and Liberia to South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Sierra Leone and Namibia, Kenyan forces have consistently answered the call for stability under the banner of the United Nations.
The unwavering commitment of Kenyan troops has not only showcased the nation's dedication to global peace but has also solidified its reputation as a reliable and capable partner in international efforts to maintain stability.
Kenya's contributions extend beyond troop deployments. In January 2021, the country commenced its two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UNSC.
Campaigning on a 10-point agenda, Kenya pledged to address critical issues such as regional peace and security, countering terrorism, and promoting human rights. This commitment reflects Kenya’s determination to champion Africa’s peace and security agenda.
The nation has actively participated in critical peace negotiations, instrumental in resolving conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somalia.
Former President Daniel Arap Moi's legacy is particularly intertwined with this pursuit of peaceful solutions, earning him recognition for his tireless efforts in bringing warring parties to the table.
His successors, including President William Ruto, have continued with this legacy. In addition to military actions, Kenya's involvement in peacekeeping is characterised by active engagement in humanitarian efforts.
This holistic approach is particularly crucial in Haiti, where socio-economic challenges exacerbate the need for humanitarian aid. Kenya's contribution can bring about positive change and contribute to long-term stability by addressing both the immediate and underlying issues.
Decades of experience have honed the Kenyan Armed Forces (KDF) and the National Police Service into a well-oiled machine.
Renowned for their resilience, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity, KDF troops and Kenya Police undergo rigorous training that emphasizes international humanitarian law, human rights, and conflict resolution techniques.
This focus on not just military prowess but also diplomacy positions them well for the complexities of peacekeeping missions. Further solidifying its role as a regional leader, Kenya established the International Peace Training Centre (IPTC) in Nairobi.
This hub serves as a training ground for African peacekeepers, strengthening their capacity to tackle security challenges across the continent and beyond.
The current crisis in Haiti, gripped by gang violence and political instability, presents a pressing humanitarian challenge. The UN Security Council's decision to deploy a peacekeeping force offers a glimmer of hope. Kenya is uniquely qualified to lead this mission for several reasons.
First, Kenya has grappled with similar challenges of gang violence and political unrest within its own borders. These experiences provide valuable insights that can be applied to the Haitian context.
Secondly, Kenya's diverse population fosters a deeper understanding of different cultures, allowing its peacekeepers to build trust and rapport with local communities in Haiti – a crucial ingredient for long-term solutions.
Finally, Kenya's unwavering commitment to Pan-Africanism motivates its involvement in assisting fellow African or Black nations. Deploying peacekeepers to Haiti embodies this spirit of solidarity and strengthens ties across international borders.
Kenya's participation in various peacekeeping missions has fostered strong ties with international partners. These partnerships are vital for a successful and collaborative approach to peacekeeping. By deploying forces to Haiti, Kenya can build on existing relationships, enhancing the effectiveness of the mission through shared resources, intelligence, and support.
However, some concerns regarding the deployment require careful consideration. Potential human rights abuses by Kenyan security forces have been raised, and these anxieties must be addressed head-on.
Strict adherence to international human rights standards and robust oversight mechanisms are essential for ensuring the mission's success. Additionally, clear and consistent communication with the Haitian people regarding the mission's objectives and timeline will be crucial for building trust and fostering cooperation.
As the international community grapples with finding sustainable solutions to global conflicts, harnessing the strengths and experiences of nations like Kenya is imperative. It is time to recognise Kenya's role as a beacon of peace and call upon its capabilities to bring hope and stability to the people of Haiti.
By doing so, we can reaffirm the principles of collective responsibility and international cooperation that lie at the heart of effective peacekeeping efforts.
Ignatius Kemboi is a communications expert and researcher