Godfrey Otunge, the Kenyan Commander of the Multinational Security Support Mission (MMSS) led a delegation to a strategic planning meeting of the Mission, on the Bahamas’ maritime capabilities.

The meeting was chaired by Philip Davis, Prime Minister of the Bahamas, accompanied by Wayne Munroe, Minister of National Security, Ambassador Jerusa Ali, Director General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Commodore Raymond E. King, Commander of the Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF).

The MMSS delegation led by Commander Otunge, consisted of Jack Ombaka, Director of Strategic Communications, Lieutenant Colonel Joel Oscar Brown (Legal Advisor), Hosea Bundotich - Director of Community Engagement, as well as Commander Jean Pedro Mars of the Haitian Coast Guard.

The Royal Bahamas Defence Force (RBDF) hosted the MSSM delegation at the Coral Harbour base for a tour and high-level discussions with RBDF leadership to refine maritime strategies to combat gang activity in Haiti and enhance regional maritime security.

Discussions focused on critical maritime operations to reduce gang influence, with a particular focus on improving the effectiveness of naval and coast guard units throughout Haiti and the Caribbean. These units play a critical role in preventing illicit trafficking and disrupting criminal networks.

The RBDF’s maritime capabilities were highlighted, including its expertise in surveillance, interdiction operations and strategic support to the Mission in Haiti.

The meeting also reviewed the overall strategy, operations and tactics, focusing on deployment to secure key areas, reduce gang activity and protect critical shipping routes. This strategy includes naval patrols, aerial surveillance and enhanced collaboration with international partners.

The RBDF reaffirms its commitment to working closely with international partners to ensure the success of the Mission in Haiti, thus underlining its desire to ensure national and regional security and stability.

SL/ HaitiLibre