By Joe Udo
MEXICO CITY (CONVERSEER) – A group of 143 Haitian soldiers have completed basic military training in Mexico, marking a significant step in Haiti’s effort to strengthen its armed forces as the country struggles with spiralling gang violence and insecurity.
The recruits — 15 women and 128 men — underwent eight weeks of training under the guidance of the Mexican Army. The programme covered self-defence, firearms handling, and human rights, reflecting a growing defence partnership between Haiti and Mexico.
Hubert Labbe, Haiti’s ambassador to Mexico, described the initiative as vital to the country’s future. “This investment benefits not only the Armed Forces of Haiti but also Haitian society as a whole,” he said.
“The skills and knowledge acquired will be fundamental in fostering national development, strengthening the rule of law, and promoting a more peaceful and secure environment in Haiti.”
The training comes amid worsening instability in Haiti. Since the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, armed gangs have expanded their influence, now estimated to control more than 90 percent of the capital, Port-au-Prince.
The country’s overstretched police force has struggled to contain the violence, leaving many neighbourhoods under the sway of heavily armed groups.
With limited international assistance, Haiti has increasingly turned to regional partners such as Mexico to bolster its security institutions and rebuild its military capacity.
Officials say the deployment of newly trained soldiers will support national efforts to restore order and provide much-needed reinforcement to law enforcement operations.
