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The United States government has clarified that it has not halted all financial support for the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti, despite recent reports suggesting a temporary freeze. A State Department spokesperson confirmed on Thursday that critical funding and equipment continue to flow to bolster security efforts in the Caribbean nation.
Key Funding Approvals Amid Administrative Review
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved $40.7 million (approximately Ksh5.2 billion) in waivers on Wednesday, February 5, to support the MSS and the Haitian National Police (HNP). This allocation includes the delivery of heavy armored equipment to enhance operational capabilities on the ground.
CNN International correspondent Larry Madowo highlighted the developments, noting that while a portion of U.S. contributions to the United Nations Trust Fund for the mission has been paused, the majority of direct American assistance remains unaffected. “The $15 million (Ksh1.9 billion) paused in the UN Trust Fund represents less than 3% of total U.S. support for the mission,” Madowo stated, citing a State Department spokesperson.
UN Trust Fund Pause: Minimal Impact Expected
The paused $15 million, part of a broader 90-day review initiated during the transition from the Biden to Trump administration, will not disrupt the mission’s immediate operations. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’oei emphasized that the UN Trust Fund retains over $110.3 million (Ksh14.2 billion) from other international donors, including Canada, France, Turkey, and Spain, ensuring continuity through September 2025.
U.S. Embassy Reaffirms Commitment to Haitian Stability
In a statement, the U.S. Embassy in Haiti reiterated that the MSS mission remains a priority. “Secretary Rubio’s approvals underscore the U.S. commitment to stabilizing Haiti. Structural adjustments during governmental transitions are routine, but support for this critical mission persists,” the embassy noted.
Kenya’s Role and International Collaboration
Kenya, leading the MSS since its authorization by the UN Security Council in late 2024, has positioned itself as a key player in addressing Haiti’s protracted security crisis. The mission aims to dismantle armed gangs and restore order, with over 1,000 Kenyan police officers expected to deploy.
MSS Assures Continuity Amid Funding Adjustments
The MSS mission released a statement on Wednesday addressing the funding review: “The 90-day pause on a fraction of the Trust Fund’s resources is procedural. Operational mechanisms remain intact, and the U.S. continues to work closely with international partners to ensure long-term success.”
Conclusion: A Nuanced Funding Landscape
While the U.S. temporarily reviews a small segment of its contributions, the Kenya-led mission in Haiti continues to receive robust backing. The State Department’s clarification aims to dispel confusion, emphasizing that direct financial and logistical support for Haitian security forces remains steadfast. As global stakeholders monitor the situation, collaboration among donor nations highlights a unified approach to fostering stability in Haiti.
