MSS Force Commander appeals to donor countries as Haiti mission enters crucial phase
By Lutta Njomo, February 17, 2025Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM) Force Commander Godfrey Otunge has called for the creation of additional forward operating bases (FOBs) as outlined in their concept of operations (CONOPS).
A forward operating base is a secured military position that supports tactical and strategic goals. FOBs can be used for extended periods. They can be located in friendly territory or afloat.
Speaking during a meeting with Spanish Ambassador to Haiti, Marco Antonio Penín Toledano, Force Commander Godfrey Otunge emphasised that additional forward operating bases were critical to the mission’s success.
He told the Spanish Ambassador that previous United Nations missions in Haiti had failed by not creating more forward operating bases.
“Commander Otunge briefed Ambassador Toledano on the mission’s achievements and the challenges it has encountered so far. He expressed appreciation for Spain’s contributions to the MSSM Trust Fund, emphasizing the need for additional Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) as outlined in the Concept of Operations (CONOPS).
“He highlighted that FOBs are crucial for strengthening MSSM’s operations, calling them a “silver bullet” for Haiti’s security situation. Otunge pointed out that previous UN missions had not prioritized the establishment of FOBs—a gap that MSSM aims to address to ensure the mission’s success,” a statement shared by MSSM page on X read in part.
CONOPS according to Otunge provides a clear picture of the operation, describes how to organize and use forces and further provides situational awareness to higher echelons.
Mission crucial phase
Otunge argued that more forward operating bases would help the officers currently in Haiti in the upcoming phase of the mission.
During the meeting, he outlined that MSSM forces were going to extend the operation to recapture more areas controlled by the gangs.
Otunge thus pleaded with su[porting and donor countries to help in the establishment of FOBs before the start of the next phase of operation.
“He urged other contributing and donor countries to support the creation of more FOBs as MSSM enters a critical phase focused on pacifying gang-controlled areas and restoring security so that displaced residents can return to their homes,” MSSM statement added.
In his discussions with MSSM leadership, Ambassador Toledano reaffirmed Spain’s commitment to finding a lasting solution to Haiti’s gang crisis. He noted Spain’s key role in rebuilding the National General Hospital in Port-au-Prince, despite ongoing challenges posed by gangs.