Belize Army Deploys Officers for Long-Delayed Haiti Mission to Jamaica, Reports Reuters

PORT-AU-PRINCE – The Belize Defence Force has announced the deployment of two senior officers to Jamaica ahead of a forthcoming mission to Haiti. This initiative is part of a commitment to support a long-postponed security operation aimed at assisting Haitian authorities in combating powerful gangs.

This deployment may indicate that additional nations will join in supporting Kenyan police already present in Haiti, as part of a "multinational support mission" requested by the Haitian government. The United Nations’ initial 12-month mandate is approaching its expiration in the coming weeks.

Importance of the Mission

In 2022, Haiti called for international assistance to deal with armed gangs that have dominated much of the capital and are extending their influence to surrounding areas. This surge has contributed to a humanitarian crisis characterized by mass displacements and rising hunger levels.

Currently, approximately 400 Kenyan police officers have been deployed out of a total of at least 2,900 troops that several countries have committed to providing. However, the mission has faced challenges, including delayed salaries and issues with essential equipment, such as firing towers mounted on armored vehicles supplied by the United States, its primary financial backer.

Operational Context

The timeline for the full deployment of forces to Haiti remains uncertain, with the Kenyan police designated to lead the mission. Neither the Haitian police nor mission officials have responded to inquiries for further details.

In May, Belize had committed to contribute 50 military personnel from the Belize Defence Force and its coast guard. According to reports from Kenyan and Haitian media, mission commander Godfrey Otunge anticipates that forces from the Bahamas, Jamaica, and Belize will be deployed by the end of this month, collectively pledging 400 troops, alongside commitments from Benin of at least 1,500.

Key Statement

The Belize Defence Force stated, "The BDF will be collaborating with the Jamaican Defence Force as part of a multinational task force dedicated to supporting Haiti’s restoration efforts." The officers will first travel to Jamaica to engage in crucial operational planning before their deployment to Haiti.