US backs Kenya and Others Pledge to Stabilise Haiti

Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

#USA, August 11, 2023 – The United States official clarified their stance following Kenya’s announcement to consider leading a multinational force to Haiti to help pacify the gang ridden nation, saying that while the US is prepared to introduce a resolution for a multinational force themselves, they are waiting on Kenya to specify and detail the help needed upon their planned visit to the Republic, to assess the situation.

This was revealed at a virtual press briefing on Friday August 4th, 2023, held by Barbara Feinstein, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Caribbean Affairs and Haiti Bureau of the Western Hemisphere.

Feinstein gave insight into the worsening atmosphere in Haiti, highlighting “additional atrocities committed by gangs,” and these include “indiscriminate attacks on women and children such as sexual and gender-based violence, widespread kidnappings and extortion,” alongside “other means of harassment.”

She added that these negatively affect food security, the delivery of humanitarian assistance and basic livelihoods.

Additionally, Feinstein pointed out, in response to a question from media, that amid Kenya’s and The Bahamas’ decision regarding the multinational force, other countries have publicly remarked on their willingness to help the struggling democracy back on its feet.

“We have seen similar statements from other countries in the region either formal statements or public comments, and that includes from Trinidad and Tobago, from Jamaica, from The Dominican Republic and the Organization of American States.”

“I think that is evidence that there is strong support for an urgent solution to Haiti’s crisis and offers of support to that end,” she added.

In continuation, the Deputy Assistant (Secretary of State) made sure to highlight that as these decisions are pending,  “the US continues to pursue a comprehensive approach in Haiti in support for security, specifically assistance to strengthen, train and equip the Haitian National Police, as well as humanitarian economic and health assistance to improve livelihoods and safeguard critical gains.”

In commending Kenya for taking the lead for the Multinational Force, Feinstein echoed Secretary Antony Blinken, who applauded the African nation for stepping in to consider steering the vehicle to Haiti’s comeback.

Present at the briefing were media representatives from The Bahamas, Guyana, South Africa , the Miami Herald and Reuters.

Photo Caption: On July 25, U.S GENERAL PAYS COURTESY CALL TO THE KDF CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCES AT ULINZI HOUSE.  The Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), General Francis Ogolla hosted the Commander U.S Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), General Bryan P. Fenton at the Defence Headquarters, Nairobi.

Credit: Kenya Defence Forces