Kenyan police officers in Haiti are earning up to Ksh279,955 a month, including their base salary and allowances, according to the ministry of Interior.
The United Nations (UN) pays them Ksh182,242, plus an extra Ksh97,713 for living expenses.
This pay rate, set by the UN General Assembly, has seen small increases over time.
Prof. Kithure Kindiki, nominee for the Ministry of Interior who was vetted today, confirmed that the UN covers the officers’ salaries and insurance.
The Kenyan-led mission in Haiti, approved by the UN Security Council in October 2023, includes 400 officers out of 1,000 Kenyan police.
Their goal is to help stabilize Haiti, which is struggling with gang violence; the public has been living at the mercies of the notorious gang led by former police officer, Jimmy Chérizier aka Barbecue.
Kindiki praised the officers for their hard work in restoring important infrastructure like ports and police stations.
He also mentioned that some gang leaders have agreed to peace. The officers, from the General Service Unit, Special Units, and Border Patrol Unit, are recognized for their dedication and hope to continue their success.
