CNN’s Larry Madowo has reported on the Kenyan police officers deployed in Haiti, revealing that shortly after their arrival, they were found praying in a church for their own well-being. This comes amid increasing scrutiny of Kenya’s role in the international peacekeeping mission in Haiti.
Madowo, who arrived in Haiti on Sunday, highlighted the emotional and spiritual support these officers sought as they embarked on their challenging assignment. “I arrived in Haiti and found Kenyan police officers in church praying for themselves,” he reported, underscoring the deep sense of camaraderie and the reliance on divine assistance as they prepare to undertake their duties in a foreign land.
The situation has also brought attention to Kenya’s deployment strategy, particularly the noticeable absence of female officers in the initial group of 400 police personnel sent to Haiti. Madowo confirmed that despite public concerns, no female officers were included in this first contingent. This has sparked discussions about gender representation and balance within the Kenyan police force, especially in peacekeeping missions that often benefit from diverse perspectives and skills.
As the mission progresses, the Kenyan police officers are expected to play a crucial role in efforts to restore peace and stability in Haiti, a nation grappling with escalating violence and unrest. The need for both spiritual and operational support highlights the complexities of peacekeeping operations.
With the Kenyan police now actively involved in this high-stakes environment, there is global interest in how their presence will influence the situation in Haiti and what steps will be taken to ensure gender inclusivity in future deployments. Will this mission bring meaningful change to Haiti? Only time will tell.
