Mudavadi seeks global patners to sustain peace missions in Somalia, Haiti

By Newsflash Repoter

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has appealed to the international community for predictable and sustained support for Kenya’s peacekeeping operations in Somalia and Haiti, warning that resource fatigue risks undermining years of progress.

Speaking on Thursday during his quarterly briefing to the diplomatic corps, Mudavadi acknowledged global financial pressures but stressed that Kenya and its regional allies cannot afford to “lose the ground already gained” in stabilizing Somalia and supporting Haiti’s fragile security transition.

“We know there is competition for resources in Europe, the Middle East and Africa, but these peacekeeping efforts cannot be abandoned. We want as a collective to help Somalia cross the last tide of ensuring total stability,” Mudavadi said.

Somalia peace mission under financial strain

Kenya contributes to the African Union Support and Stabilisation Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which is facing a $41.6 million shortfall against its $166.5 million annual budget. The mission inherited additional obligations from ATMIS, putting further strain on its resources.

Although the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 2719 in December 2023 to allow AU missions to access UN-assessed contributions, implementation has been stalled amid U.S. opposition, with Washington calling on European and African states to shoulder more of the costs.

Mudavadi stressed the need for both financial and logistical backing, urging “friendly nations” to make fresh commitments.

Haiti mission faces challenges, calls for solidarity

On Haiti, Mudavadi reiterated Kenya’s commitment to leading the Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM), despite operational challenges and the loss of Kenyan personnel. He warned that unmet pledges from some partners risk weakening the mission’s progress.

“The sustained commitment and solidarity of international partners is essential. Kenya remains fully committed, but we urgently need adequate and predictable financial resources, equipment and logistical support,” he said.

The UN Security Council is reviewing recommendations from the UN Secretary-General, including proposals to establish a dedicated UN support office in Haiti and transition MSSM into a Gang Suppression Force.

Mudavadi emphasized that stability in both Somalia and Haiti is not only a regional priority but also a global security imperative.