A team of Kenyan police officers has landed in Haiti to initiate a UN-backed operation aimed at combating the influential armed gangs causing unrest in the Caribbean nation.

Clad in camouflage attire and bearing rifles, the Kenyan officers arrived at the Toussaint Louverture international airport near Port-au-Prince, where over 80% of the city is under the control of these gangs.

United States President Joe Biden expressed gratitude to nations providing personnel and financial backing to the mission, with the US contributing $360 million. The lack of specific details concerning the mission's objectives has prompted skepticism, especially given past foreign interventions in Haiti.

Haitian Prime Minister Garry Conille welcomed the initiative to restore stability in Haiti during these challenging times. The mission is part of ongoing efforts following the national upheaval after the assassination of President Jovenal Moïse.

Notably, Monica Juma, a security advisor to Kenyan President William Ruto, emphasized the peacekeeping role of the forces in Haiti amidst escalating violence and hunger crises.

Although Kenyan forces aim to aid in Haiti, a recent violent clash in Nairobi raises concerns about their ability to handle unrest effectively both at home and abroad.

The mission comprises an international force planned to include approximately 2,500 police officers from 15 countries, hoping to address the growing gang influence exacerbating Haiti's social and economic challenges.

In the midst of escalating violence and displacement in Haiti, the new mission faces scrutiny over its operational transparency and accountability in the turbulent environment.