Haiti aid, U.S. humanitarian assistance, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, Haiti security, Kenyan police in Haiti, Haiti gang violence, U.S. embassy Port-au-Prince, Haiti crisis, Haitian national police, Haiti transitional government
Discover how U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced $60 million in additional aid and new resources for Haiti’s police forces during her visit to Port-au-Prince. Learn about the international efforts to combat gang violence and support Haiti’s humanitarian needs.
U.S. Ambassador Announces $60 Million in Aid and New Resources for Police During Visit to Haiti
On July 22, 2024, U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield announced an additional $60 million in humanitarian assistance to Haiti. The announcement was made during her visit to the U.S. embassy in Port-au-Prince, where she engaged with Haitian members of civil society. This visit comes at a time when Haiti is grappling with severe gang violence and a dire humanitarian crisis.
Humanitarian Assistance and Security Measures
The $60 million aid package is part of a broader effort by the United States to support Haiti’s ongoing struggles. This new funding brings the total U.S. humanitarian assistance to Haiti to over $165 million for the current fiscal year. The funds are intended to address critical gaps in nutrition, food security, and shelter, while also improving water and sanitation services. Additionally, the aid will provide Haitians with cash to purchase essential goods.
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield also revealed that the U.S. Defense Department would significantly increase the supply of mine-resistant vehicles to support a U.N.-backed, multinational security mission led by Kenya. This mission aims to bolster Haiti’s national police in their fight against the rampant gang violence that has plagued the country.
The Role of Kenyan Police
The announcement follows the arrival of the second contingent of 200 Kenyan police officers in Haiti. The first group of 200 officers had arrived the previous month. These officers are part of a multinational force that will eventually include personnel from the Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Benin, Chad, and Jamaica. The total force will number 2,500 and will be deployed in phases, with an estimated annual cost of $600 million.
Kenyan police are expected to train the Haitian national police, preparing them for joint security operations. This training is seen as crucial in restoring law and order in a country where gangs have seized control of up to 80% of the capital and surrounding areas since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse on July 7, 2021.
Challenges and Hope for Progress
Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield acknowledged the challenges ahead, noting that progress is not linear and setbacks are to be expected. However, she expressed hope and optimism, emphasizing the significant strides made so far. “This isn’t a naïve sense of hope, but I do have a sense of hope. This has been a remarkable day on the ground,” she stated.
The visit also included meetings with leaders of Haiti’s new transitional government, led by Prime Minister Garry Conille, a former U.N. development specialist who assumed office in early June. There has been widespread international support for this transitional government, which is tasked with guiding Haiti toward democratic elections. These elections, however, have yet to be scheduled.
The Impact of Gang Violence
The power of gangs in Haiti has surged since the assassination of President Moïse. The resulting violence has led to an alarming increase in killings, rapes, and kidnappings, causing widespread fear and instability. Civilian vigilante groups have risen in response to the gang violence, further complicating the security situation.
The United Nations estimates that the violence has displaced approximately 580,000 people, more than half of whom are children. Additionally, 4 million people are facing food insecurity as a result of the ongoing crisis. The Haitian government’s plea for international assistance led to U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres’ months-long appeal for a country to lead the foreign armed force. Kenya eventually stepped forward to lead the effort.
International Support and Future Plans
The U.S. has already contributed over $300 million to support the multinational force, which has been backed by a U.N. resolution. The Kenyan-led mission is viewed as a critical step in stabilizing Haiti and creating a pathway toward democratic governance.
The newly announced $60 million aid package will target immediate humanitarian needs while the increased supply of mine-resistant vehicles will enhance the capabilities of the security forces on the ground. The Kenyan police, alongside other international personnel, will play a pivotal role in training and supporting the Haitian national police, aiming to restore stability and security.
Conclusion
The visit of U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield to Haiti highlights the international community’s commitment to addressing the country’s profound challenges. The $60 million in additional aid and the increased security resources represent a significant investment in Haiti’s future. While the path to recovery is fraught with difficulties, the coordinated efforts of the Haitian government, international partners, and humanitarian organizations offer a glimmer of hope for a more stable and prosperous Haiti.
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