The Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti (MSSM) has issued an update on its mission in the Caribbean country.
In a statement on Tuesday, November 26, 2024, MSSM promised to prioritize the safety and education of Haiti’s youth by supporting the resumption of learning as schools reopen.
In addition, MSSM stated that gang activities affected the education sector through attacks, abduction, and the forced recruitment of children into the gangs.
“One of the sectors most affected by gang activities in Haiti is education. Through attacks, abductions, and the forced recruitment of children, gangs have become the primary threat to peace-loving Haitians.
“As part of the MSSM’s mandate, we are working to ensure that more schools reopen and learning resumes. For example, a school in the Cazeau area reopened today following sustained efforts by MSSM and the Haitian National Police (HNP) to stabilize the area. Teachers and students returned to the classrooms and interacted freely with MSSM personnel, marking a significant step toward normalcy,” the statement read in part.
Reopening of schools
The mission, led by Kenyan police officers in support of the Haitian National Police (HNP), stated that another school is experiencing reopening, adding that to ensure uninterrupted training for recruits in the security forces, they have maintained their presence at the police academy.
“Similarly, another school along Avenue Mais Gate experienced a peaceful reopening under MSSM and HNP’s continued presence. In addition, MSSM and HNP have maintained their presence at the Police Academy to ensure uninterrupted training for recruits. High-level strategic meetings between senior MSSM and HNP officials are ongoing to strengthen security at the academy and pacify nearby neighbourhoods such as Vif Mitchel.
“By prioritizing the safety and education of Haiti’s youth, MSSM and HNP reaffirm their commitment to restoring stability and hope in the nation,” the statement read in part.
MSSM Supports the Resumption of Learning as Schools Reopen
One of the sectors most affected by gang activities in Haiti is education. Through attacks, abductions, and the forced recruitment of children, gangs have become the primary threat to peace-loving Haitians. As part of… pic.twitter.com/Fxe67VNTJR
— Multinational Security Support Mission to Haiti (@MSSMHaiti) November 26, 2024