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Kenyan President William Ruto has highlighted his country’s leadership in peace and security initiatives, including its role in supporting Haiti through a United Nations-backed peacekeeping mission. The remarks were part of his broader call for strengthened regional integration within the East African Community (EAC) during an address marking the EAC’s 25th anniversary.
Ruto emphasized that Kenya’s engagement in Haiti, alongside other diplomatic and security efforts, reflects its commitment to fostering stability beyond its borders. He described these initiatives as integral to addressing the root causes of conflict and creating conditions for sustainable development.
“Peace and security are essential for any nation’s prosperity. Kenya is proud to contribute to global stability, including our ongoing efforts in Haiti,” Ruto said. “These actions underscore our readiness to support nations in crisis and to collaborate internationally to address challenges.”
Kenya’s planned deployment of police to Haiti comes amid ongoing unrest in the Caribbean nation, where gang violence and political instability have severely disrupted daily life. The mission, which will operate under a UN framework, aims to assist Haitian authorities in restoring security and governance.
Ruto connected Kenya’s work in Haiti to its leadership within the EAC, where the nation has played a key role in mediating conflicts, including in South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo. He argued that such efforts not only strengthen regional integration but also position Kenya as a global peacebuilding partner.
As part of his address, Ruto called for greater collaboration among EAC member states to ensure peace and stability across East Africa, which he linked to attracting investment and fostering economic growth. “Our work in Haiti mirrors the principles we uphold at home: prioritizing unity, stability, and development,” he added.
Kenya’s participation in Haiti’s peacekeeping efforts comes as the EAC celebrates 25 years of growth, having expanded from its three founding members—Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania—to include several additional nations, with Somalia expected to join soon.
