Editor's Review

The president was en route to the US when he branched off to Haiti.

President William Ruto landed in Port-au-Prince, the Haitian capital, on Saturday, September 21. 

The head of state implied the trip to the Caribbean nation was impromptu and off diary.

While sharing moments with the officers, the president revealed he branched off from his visit to the United States to check on the Kenyan troops deployed to Haiti to fight anarchists. 

"When I flagged you off, I mandated you, on behalf of the people of Kenya, to be exemplary ambassadors of Kenya and its iconic brand represented by courage, professionalism, selflessness, compassion, and efficiency. I have, therefore, made this visit before attending the 79th UN General Assembly to check on your progress," he said.
President William Ruto with Haitian government officials.

Ruto pampered the Kenyan officers with kind words, recognising their efforts under the  Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission to stabilise Haiti.

The president was impressed by the professionalism observed by the troops three months into their deployment.

"As a consequence of your exemplary service and contributions to the multinational security support operation, the country’s security has significantly improved, its critical infrastructure is much safer, populations are returning home, humanitarian access has increased, and abductions have decreased," he said.

Ruto, who later led the officers in song and prayer, was upbeat that their good display would exhibit Kenya's goodwill on the global stage and thus accord the country accolades and respect from international partners.

"As you do your part to enable the MSS to restore security in Haiti, you will also be indirectly enhancing Kenya's global profile by enabling it to discharge its humanitarian obligations and fulfil its international commitments," Ruto said.

The president promised the officers that the arrangements to facilitate their communication with their families would be enhanced as they camp in Haiti.

"I am assured that the support team back in Nairobi will continue to do their best to enable you to also do your best. We shall also take every possible measure to maintain a positive spirit and facilitate your success as you take part in the MSS," he said.