Godfrey Otunge, the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission Force Commander, on Wednesday, January 1, 2025, sent a message of hope to Haiti residents.
In his New Year’s message, Godfrey Otunge pledged to collaborate with the citizens of that Caribbean nation to restore peace and co-existence.
In a statement, Otunge reflected on the vision of Haiti’s Creole emperor Jean-Jacques Dessalines, vowing to push for the people’s sovereignty, which he inspired when he declared Haitian independence on January 1, 1804.
New Year celebrations coincide with Haiti’s Independence Day celebrations.
“The future of Haiti is bright, reflecting the vision and aspirations of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the father of the nation. His unwavering commitment to Halti’s sovereignty and security continues to inspire us all.
“May 2025 bring hope, peace, and success to every Haitian. Happy New Year and Happy Independence Day! Together, we will build a new Haiti, “Otunge’s message read in part.
Commander Otunge also expressed his gratitude to the country’s officials, led by Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé, whom he credited for supporting the Kenyan soldiers in their peacekeeping mission.
With continued support, Otunge vowed to push the best forward in the bid to eradicate gang violence in the country.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the Transitional Presidential Council (CPT), the Prime Minister, and the Haitian population for their continued support and cooperation with the M55 Mission. Your commitment to our joint mandate, aimed at supporting the Haitian National Police (HNP) in restoring national security, has been invaluable.
“I am deeply thankful for the progress we have achieved together through sacrifice, dedication, and hard work in building a safe and secure Haiti. Despite challenges, we have united to overcome them, and the New Year renews our hope and determination to advance toward greater prosperity for the Haitian people,” Otunge reiterated.
MSS, in collaboration with the Haiti National Police (HNP), has achieved significant progress in securing critical national infrastructure.
Key sites such as the international airport, the national hospital, and the main seaport in Port-au-Prince have been secured, greatly enhancing public safety and fostering stability in the region.
Joint patrols with the HNP in crucial areas of Port-au-Prince, including downtown, have increased the protection of civilians.
Happy New Year! pic.twitter.com/bqp1Wuwjdx
— Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti (@MSSMHaiti) January 1, 2025
