French Ambassador’s Surprise Visit to Kenscoff Amid Rising Insecurity

On Sunday, June 22, 2025, Antoine Michon, the French Ambassador to Haiti, made an unexpected visit to Kenscoff, a commune struggling with escalating insecurity in recent months. The visit caught residents off guard as several areas in Kenscoff remain under the control of armed gangs, making the security situation fragile.

Despite these challenges, the ambassador met with local officials and community leaders to discuss development projects focused on roads, education, and healthcare. This visit demonstrates France’s commitment to supporting local initiatives, even in areas severely impacted by violence.

For the residents, the visit brought both hope and concern. Many see it as a sign of potential improvement in their daily lives, while others fear that ongoing insecurity will hinder the effectiveness of any external aid. The presence of armed groups continues to disrupt basic services and discourage investment.

This visit reflects a diplomatic effort to engage with communities facing hardship despite difficult circumstances. The success of such initiatives will largely depend on the Haitian authorities’ ability to restore peace and security in Kenscoff.