Jamaican and Belizean troops join multinational mission in Haiti

Haiti.- The first Jamaican and Belizean troops arrived in Port-au-Prince to join the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, alongside 400 Kenyan agents already on the ground. Jamaica has committed to sending 200 soldiers to provide command, planning, and logistics support, with 20 soldiers and four police officers arriving as the first group. Two Belizean soldiers also arrived as part of a U.S.-organized flight for the mission, which has UN approval and aims to deploy 2,500 troops and police officers gradually. Additional contributions are expected from countries like the Bahamas, Barbados, Bangladesh, Chad, and Benin by the end of September.

Despite the arrival of Kenyan police in Haiti nearly three months ago, the security situation remains dire. Armed gangs continue to control 80% of Port-au-Prince and other areas. Last year, violence claimed 8,000 lives and left 8,000 injured, with nearly 3,900 victims reported in the first half of 2024 alone. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, during a recent visit, emphasized the need for more funding and personnel to support the mission. The U.S. has already contributed over $300 million, and efforts to secure further international support are ongoing.