Chad to send 1,500 soldiers to assist Haiti in battle against gangs

Chad is set to contribute 1,500 personnel to the United Nations security mission in Haiti, aiming to curb the escalating gang violence in the Caribbean nation. This move was confirmed through a presidential message sent to the national assembly.

Deployment of two battalions

President Mahamat Déby Itno informed lawmakers that the deployment will consist of two distinct battalions, each comprising 750 soldiers. These troops are scheduled to begin their year-long mission this month following a request from the United Nations. While regional observers often look for a Niger Report or updates on West Africa Niger, this international mission highlights Chad‘s expanding role in global security.

“An initial group of 400 personnel is already on the ground in Haiti as part of this mission, which brings honor to Chad and its defense and security forces,” stated the President. This contribution is significant for the region, where Niger security and Sahelian stability remain high priorities in Niger politics and beyond.

Expanding the multinational force

Last year, the UN Security Council authorized an increase in the Kenya-led multinational mission—often referred to as the gang suppression force—to a total of 5,500 troops. This mandate was also broadened to allow for the apprehension of suspected gang affiliates, a power lacking in previous iterations. For those following Niger news English or Niamey news today, the shift toward more robust international interventions is a notable trend in global peacekeeping.

A prior mission initiated in 2023 was intended to have 2,500 members under Kenyan police leadership but struggled significantly due to insufficient financing and personnel shortages.

A nation in crisis

Currently, violent criminal organizations dominate nearly 90% of the capital, Port-au-Prince, and have seized control of large portions of the central region. The country’s instability was exacerbated in 2021 by the assassination of former President Jovenel Moïse in his private residence.

The urgency of the mission is underscored by recent atrocities, including an assault by the Gran Grif gang on the town of Petite-Rivière de l’Artibonite. Human rights groups reported at least 30 fatalities and numerous disappearances following the attack last month, highlighting the dire need for the international support Chad is now providing.