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Guinea will deploy 650 police officers and gendarmes to support a multinational force tasked with stabilizing Haiti, Prime Minister Bah Oury announced during the United Nations General Assembly.
Speaking at the 79th session of the UN assembly, Oury said the contribution reflects Guinea’s ongoing commitment to international peacekeeping efforts. Haiti has been struggling with escalating violence fueled by gangs, prompting calls for international assistance.
“We have actively participated in peacekeeping efforts under the United Nations and will continue to do so,” Oury said. “We are prepared to contribute 650 police officers and gendarmes to help stabilize Haiti.”
The UN Security Council approved the deployment of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) to Haiti in October 2023, led by Kenya. The force is intended to support the Haitian police, who have been overwhelmed by widespread gang violence.
Kenya began deploying personnel in June 2024, with the mission expected to reach a total of 2,500 officers by January 2025. However, the mission has faced challenges, including a lack of financial contributions and equipment from foreign partners.
Guinea’s pledge comes as Haiti and the United States push for the MSSM to be expanded into a formal UN peacekeeping mission, a move that would require broader international backing.
Longstanding Role in Peacekeeping
Guinea’s offer to contribute to the Haiti mission is part of a broader strategy to increase its participation in global peacekeeping. The West African nation has previously deployed troops to the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in Mali (MINUSMA) and continues to provide personnel for peace operations in the Central African Republic and Western Sahara.
Guinea’s involvement in the Haiti mission would mark a significant step in its peacekeeping efforts following the withdrawal of its contingent from Mali in 2023, after the military government there requested the UN mission’s end.
The multinational force in Haiti aims to stabilize the country by restoring order, protecting civilians, and supporting the Haitian National Police.
International Solidarity
Oury framed Guinea’s participation as part of a wider commitment to global security and solidarity with nations in crisis.
He emphasized that the contribution to the Haiti mission aligns with Guinea’s broader foreign policy goals and its intention to play a more active role in international partnerships.
Guinea has been under military rule since a 2021 coup, and its leaders have repeatedly stressed the importance of strengthening the country’s international relationships while advancing domestic reforms.
Challenges Ahead
Despite the deployment of troops, the MSSM faces significant challenges, with Haitian officials and international partners urging greater international investment and support. Haiti remains mired in political instability, with gang-related violence causing widespread suffering and disrupting essential services.
The Haitian government and the United States have advocated for a transformation of the MSSM into a formal UN peacekeeping mission to provide longer-term stability.
