On January 10, 2025, the Haitian National Police Academy marked a historic milestone with the graduation of 739 newly trained police officers, including 213 women, under the guidance of Kenyan trainers. This achievement symbolizes a significant step toward restoring security and stability in Haiti, a nation plagued by escalating gang violence and political instability.
The academy, previously under threat from the notorious Kraze Baryè gang, reopened in July 2024 through the joint efforts of Haitian National Police (HNP) Director General Normil Rameau and Multinational Security Support (MSS) Force Commander Godfrey Otunge. The establishment of the first MSS Forward Operating Base (FOB) within the academy allowed for the rigorous training of recruits beginning in August 2024.
The graduation ceremony, attended by high-profile dignitaries such as Leslie Voltaire, President of the Transitional Presidential Council, and United Nations envoy Maria Isabel Salvador, was a powerful symbol of resilience. Despite attempted disruptions by gangs, specialized units of the HNP and MSS ensured the event’s security.
Voltaire emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling gang violence and creating conditions for national elections. Director of the National Police School, Sem Prédestin, highlighted the recruits’ comprehensive training and urged them to maintain professionalism and foster public trust.
The new officers will join special HNP units, bolstering operations in gang-affected regions such as the West and Artibonite departments. The MSS plans to establish additional FOBs in these areas to further combat gang dominance.
Kenya, leading the UN-backed mission, initially deployed 400 police officers, supported by contingents from Guatemala, El Salvador, Jamaica, and Belize. However, the mission has faced challenges, including a delayed deployment of pledged troops and the closure of the main airport due to gang violence.
Despite setbacks, the arrival of reinforcements from Guatemala and El Salvador offers hope for a stronger international response. Kenya’s deployment of 600 additional officers aims to strengthen the mission’s capacity to restore law and order, providing a glimmer of hope for Haiti’s beleaguered citizens.
