
Regional tensions have hit boiling point after Uganda’s Chief of Defence Forces, General Muhoozi Kainerugaba, launched a vicious public attack on Kenya’s military, mocking its failed mission in Haiti and daring the UN to let Uganda take over the operation.
In an extraordinary outburst posted on his verified X account, Muhoozi lashed out at the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), branding them “weaklings” and declaring that Uganda’s army could capture Port-au-Prince in one month—a feat Kenyan troops have failed to achieve in nearly two years.
“I must say the Congolese Army (FARDC), although they have some issues…they are 10 times better than the Kenyan Army,” Muhoozi wrote.
“UPDF is prepared to RESCUE our Kenyan brothers from HAITI. It would take us 1 month to capture Port-au-Prince. The Kenyans have failed after nearly 2 years…that’s what we expected. Weaklings.”
The post stunned diplomatic and military circles, particularly his final jab:
“Kenyans are experts at running from fire. That’s why they are world champions at the Marathon.”
The Fallout: Diplomatic Meltdown and Regional Shock
Muhoozi’s comments represent one of the most public and aggressive intra-African military insults in decades, directly undermining Kenya’s credibility on the world stage. Kenya, which leads the embattled Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission in Haiti, has already suffered operational failures, funding freezes, and fatal attacks.

The Haitian deployment, once seen as a prestigious international assignment, has now spiraled into a public relations disaster—amplified by the biting ridicule of a neighboring army chief.
Kenyan government officials have not yet issued an official response, but high-ranking military sources described Muhoozi’s remarks as “deliberately provocative,” warning that they could damage East African regional cooperation under frameworks like the East African Community (EAC) and the African Union (AU).
Uganda Ready to Replace Kenya?
Muhoozi made clear that Uganda’s People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) is ready to step in.
“The UN is welcome to offer us favourable terms,” he added, signaling Uganda’s readiness to deploy troops to Haiti if the opportunity arises.
International observers say the message is unmistakable: Muhoozi wants Kenya out, Uganda in.
Kenya’s Haiti Mission: Under Siege
- Poor Results: Kenyan troops have failed to secure major gang zones in Port-au-Prince despite months on the ground.
- Funding Issues: U.S. and partner contributions have been delayed or frozen, choking mission logistics.
- Rising Death Toll: At least one Kenyan officer has been killed and another is missing in action.
Now, the mission’s failure is being weaponized—not just by critics abroad, but by a powerful East African neighbour.
What Comes Next?
- Kenya’s Reaction: Will Nairobi defend the honor of its military or ignore the provocation?
- UN’s Decision: Will global powers shift support to Uganda under pressure?
- Regional Stability at Risk: If left unchecked, Muhoozi’s tirade could fracture EAC unity and spark military rivalries.
This is no longer about Haiti. It’s a geopolitical flashpoint threatening to spill over into African diplomatic warfare. Kenya’s silence may not last long.