UN Extends Kenyan-Led Security Mission in Haiti Amid Escalating Violence

The UN Security Council has extended its authorization of a Kenyan-led security force in Haiti for an additional year. This decision comes as powerful gangs tighten their grip on the capital. Despite limited progress and insufficient funding, 400 Kenyan police officers are on the ground to aid Haiti.

The United Nations Security Council unanimously agreed on Monday to extend for another year its authorization of a Kenyan-led international security force to assist in combating armed gangs in Haiti.

Last week, Haitian leaders sounded alarms over worsening insecurity in the Caribbean country. Powerful gangs, primarily armed with weaponry trafficked from the United States, have formed an alliance in the capital, taking control of most of the city and eyeing expansion into nearby areas.

While the U.N. Security Council approved the security assistance mission, it operates independently of United Nations oversight. To date, the mission has made scant progress in helping Haiti regain stability, hampered by a mere 400 Kenyan police officers on the ground and significant funding shortages.

(With inputs from agencies.)