First Chadian GSF Troops and Special Representative Arrive in Haiti

The first contingent of Gang Suppression Force (GSF) troops from Chad arrived in Port-au-Prince on April 1, 2026, marking the operational beginning of the UN-backed GSF mission. Jack Christofides, a South African UN peacebuilding official appointed as GSF Special Representative, landed alongside the initial Chadian advance team of approximately 50 personnel. Unlike the predecessor Kenya-led Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission — which was limited to training and supporting the Haitian National Police — the GSF holds a broader mandate including independent counter-gang operations and arrest powers. Chad has pledged up to 800 total troops; approximately 300 more are expected by end of April, with full operational capacity of 5,550 personnel targeted by October 2026. The UNSC vote authorizing the GSF passed 12–0 with China, Russia, and Pakistan abstaining.