Kenyan police officers deployed to Haiti for a United Nations-backed mission are receiving substantial financial compensation for their peacekeeping efforts.
Several months after their departure to the troubled Caribbean nation, these officers are now earning up to Ksh279,955 per month—a significant increase compared to their salaries in Kenya.
This financial package includes a base monthly salary of Ksh182,242, provided by the international agency. Additionally, the officers receive a Mission Subsistence Allowance (MSA) of $756, which equates to approximately Ksh97,713, further boosting their monthly income.
The deployment, authorized by the United Nations Security Council in October 2023, involves 400 Kenyan police officers as part of a broader contingent committed to stabilizing the violence-stricken nation.
This mission, also supported by the United States, aims to reclaim control from gangs and restore order in critical areas, including key infrastructure such as ports, airports, police stations, and hospitals.
During his vetting by the Appointments Committee on August 1, Prof. Kithure Kindiki, President William Ruto’s nominee for the Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government, confirmed that the officers are fully covered, insured, and paid by the United Nations. He reassured the committee, stating, “Our officers are covered, insured, and paid for by the United Nations, and therefore there is no cause for alarm.”
The UN’s reimbursement framework for Peacekeeping Missions outlines the pay structure for contributing countries. The General Assembly’s resolution 68/281 established a base rate of $1,332 per person per month, with gradual increases leading to the current rate of $1,410 as of July 2017. This salary framework ensures that officers receive competitive compensation for their work in challenging and often dangerous environments.
Kenyan officers deployed to Haiti are drawn from the General Service Unit (GSU), Special Units, and the Border Patrol Unit (BPU).
Prof. Kindiki praised the officers’ dedication and success, emphasizing the importance of their mission and expressing hope for their continued progress.
