In recent years, Haiti has been plagued by a wave of gang violence, prompting the government to urgently seek aid. Nearly two years after this pressing request, the upcoming arrival of hundreds of Kenyan police officers in the country is causing mixed reactions among the Haitian population.
In the streets of the capital, Port-au-Prince, the arrival of these police reinforcements is greeted differently. Some welcome their presence, considering that they could help restore security and freedom of movement throughout the country. For others, however, caution is advised.
Verna Siber, a teacher in Port-au-Prince, believes that the presence of Kenyan police forces is essential to guarantee the freedom and security of all Haitians. On the other hand, for Nathalie François, nurse, the responsibility for solving the country’s problems falls primarily on the Haitian population itself. Despite everything, she recognizes that any form of aid is welcome if it can allow residents to live in security and meet their basic needs.
On the side of Maxime Josaphat, an electrician in Port-au-Prince, the observation is bitter about the slow arrival of this external aid. “We have been suffering for too long,” he insists.
Kenyan police forces will lead a multinational force tasked with combating violent gangs plaguing Haiti. Faced with powerful gangs controlling large parts of the Haitian capital and leaving hundreds of thousands of people homeless, decisive action is needed more than ever.
The U.N. report highlights the challenges facing the Haitian national police, which are underfunded and poorly equipped, with only about 4,000 officers on duty for a population of more than 11 million. The collaboration of international police forces, notably those of the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad and Jamaica alongside Kenyan police officers, promises to be crucial.
Ultimately, this international police intervention represents hope for Haitians seeking security and stability. Faced with the challenge of restoring order in a country shaken by gang violence, unity and international cooperation are essential to establish a climate of lasting peace and allow residents to rebuild their future.