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United Nations Report Links Kenya-Led Haiti Mission to Rape Cases
Allegations Confirmed by Investigations
A new report by the United Nations has linked personnel under the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti to four rape cases.
Investigators confirmed all four cases after conducting formal inquiries.
The report, presented by the UN Secretary-General, highlights wider concerns across UN-linked operations. In total, it documents 568 victims of sexual exploitation and abuse last year, including 158 children.
As a result, the UN describes the violations as a “fundamental betrayal of trust” placed in the organisation and its partners.
Accountability and Ongoing Reviews
According to the report, authorities are still reviewing most cases.
At the same time, the UN is working with Kenyan authorities under existing conduct and discipline frameworks. Together, they aim to establish responsibility and determine appropriate action.
“In 2025, the United Nations received four allegations of sexual exploitation and abuse involving personnel from the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti,” the report states.
Furthermore, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights confirmed all four cases after investigation.
Officials then referred the cases to the mission’s command structures for further action.
Responsibility Lies with Member States
The UN emphasises that troop-contributing countries carry the primary responsibility for accountability.
Therefore, countries such as Kenya must investigate allegations and prosecute offenders where necessary.
“Member States are responsible for holding their personnel accountable,” the report states.
Moreover, the UN calls for faster investigations and greater transparency in handling such cases.
United Nations Report Links Kenya-Led Haiti Mission to Rape Cases. Photo Courtesy
Details Emerge from External Reporting
Although the UN report provides limited case details, external reporting offers more insight.
For instance, the Miami Herald reports that the victims were aged between 12 and 18 years. All four cases were marked as corroborated.
“Under the report’s findings, all of the cases said: ‘Violation corroborated,’” the publication noted.
However, in most cases, authorities have not yet taken final action. In one instance involving a 12-year-old, the mission conducted an internal investigation.
The Miami Herald also sought comment from mission officials, including force commander Godfrey Otunge and spokesperson Jack Mbaka, but received no response.
Additionally, the outlet notes that AyiboPost first reported the allegations.
Background on the Haiti Mission
The Kenya-led MSS mission deployed to Haiti in 2024. Its primary goal was to help combat rising gang violence.
The UN Security Council authorized the deployment. However, the mission operates as a non-UN force, despite receiving UN backing.
Kenyan police officers formed the majority of the personnel. The mission has since concluded its operations earlier this year.
Oversight Concerns Persist
The UN notes that personnel underwent both pre-deployment and in-mission training on sexual exploitation and abuse.
However, it warns that evolving peace operations require stricter oversight. This is especially true for non-UN forces operating under UN mandates.
“As peace operations evolve, ensuring consistent standards is essential,” the report states.
Ultimately, the UN stresses that stronger safeguards are necessary to protect communities and maintain trust.
A Pattern of Concern
These revelations add to longstanding concerns about misconduct by foreign forces in Haiti.
Previous UN peacekeeping missions in the country also faced similar allegations.
Consequently, the latest findings raise fresh questions about accountability, oversight, and the protection of vulnerable populations.
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