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Strengthening Kenya and Haiti Diplomatic Relations

Dr. Korir Singoei, Principal Secretary for State Department for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Josphat Maikara, Director, Americas and the Caribbean Directorate (R) and Mr. Edward Muito, the Chief Information Officer of Africa4Haiti (A4H) (L) during the joint Press briefing held on August 7, 2024On August 7, 2024, Dr. Korir Singoei, Principal Secretary for State Department for Foreign Affairs held a joint press briefing with the Africa4Haiti Initiative (A4H) to highlight Kenya’s commitment to the Multinational Security Support (MSS) Mission in Haiti.Kenya and Haiti formally established Diplomatic relations to further cement existing cooperation in September 2023.  As a result, the bilateral relations have grown significantly strengthened by commitment to the MSS mission in Haiti, which reflects Kenya’s unwavering dedication to global peace and stability.“The MSS Mission has seen substantial progress, with Kenyan forces playing a pivotal role in support of the Haitian Government and the maintenance of security,” said PS Singoei.The Principal Secretary emphasized the deep historical and cultural ties between Africa and Haiti.  To strengthen these connections, the State Department for Foreign Affairs in collaboration with A4H will host the ‘Harmony4Haiti Concert and Cultural Festival.’   This event aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of both Haiti and Africa, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.Scheduled for August 24, 2024, at Uhuru Gardens in Lang’ata, Nairobi, the event will feature a series of activities, including: Musical performances by renowned artists from Haiti and Africa; cultural exhibition showcasing Haitian and African art, crafts, and cuisine; panel discussion on the historical, cultural, and socio-economic ties between Haiti and Africa; Workshops and seminars on sustainable development and humanitarian aid strategies; and theatrical play titled “Arise” which will depict the resilience and spirit of the Haitian people.The event will also see the launch of the A4H Podcast, focusing on exploring the challenges and opportunities facing Haiti and the broader African diaspora.During the briefing, the A4H Chief Information Officer, emphasized that the Harmony4Haiti Festival is set to be a landmark event, reinforcing the strong bond between Kenya and Haiti and celebrating their shared legacy. The festival will serve as a meaningful platform for cultural exchange and collaboration, further strengthening the commitment to supporting Haiti’s future.

The Principal Secretary underscored Kenya’s commitment to supporting Haiti not only culturally but also in areas of security, governance, and development initiatives.

‘The Kenya police in Haiti are undergoing linguistic and inter-cultural training classes to enhance their operations in the Caribbean nation. The team will get classes in French and Haitian Creole, which are the languages of the Haitian institutions and population,’’ the PS said, adding that, Kenya looks forward to a stable and prosperous Haiti in the long-term.

Haiti holds a special place in the history of the African diaspora.  It was the first country in the Americas to officially abolish slavery and the first independent nation in the Caribbean.  Haiti was the first black republic to gain independence in 1804, after a successful revolt against colonial powers served as a beacon of hope and inspiration for liberation movements across Africa and the world.