By Andrew Wasike
NAIROBI, Kenya (AA) – The Kenyan parliament on Thursday greenlighted the deployment of the national police force to Haiti, which is grappling with escalating gang violence and a dire humanitarian crisis.
Kenyan lawmakers approved the move after a joint parliamentary committee recommended the deployment of troops to Haiti.
Kenyan authorities have affirmed their commitment to sending a 1,000-strong police force to Haiti, responding to an urgent international appeal for assistance in tackling the pervasive gang violence that has plagued the country.
A Caribbean nation, Haiti has been marred by instability, which worsened significantly following the assassination of President Jovenel Mois by an armed group two years ago.
The acts of violence exacerbated an already dire humanitarian and economic situation in the Caribbean nation.
Port-au-Prince, the capital city, is under the control of various gangs, creating a perilous environment for its residents.
The situation is further compounded by political turmoil, a severe humanitarian crisis, and pervasive poverty, all contributing to a climate of extreme violence.
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, the US, and other members of the international community have advocated for the deployment of an international force in Haiti, all vowing to support Kenya financially.