UNICEF welcomes the release of women and children in Kenscoff and calls for stronger protection of children in Haiti

NEW YORK (August 28, 2026) - Six children and seven women who were abducted in Kenscoff last Sunday have been released. The children include three children under the age of two, a seven-year-old and two teenage girls. UNICEF and community leaders supported efforts that contributed to their release, ending days of captivity.

“This release offers a rare moment of hope amid the violence threatening children in Haiti,” said UNICEF Deputy Representative in Haiti, Yannig Dussart. “The Kenscoff abduction was not an isolated incident but another stark reminder of the scale and frequency of attacks on children across the country.”

Armed violence continues to grip Haiti, placing children in continued danger. Killings, abductions and other grave violations have become a consistent threat to children.

UNICEF continues to work with all key stakeholders to strengthen child protection systems, support children affected by violence, and enable their recovery and reintegration. UNICEF calls on all armed actors in Haiti to cease attacks on children and release any children still held immediately and ensure their protection at all times.

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UNICEF USA advances the global mission of UNICEF by rallying the American public to support the world’s most vulnerable children. Together, we are working toward a world that upholds the rights of all children and helps every child thrive. For more information, visit www.unicefusa.org. 

For more information please contact:
Nina Marie Costa, UNICEF USA, 973-519-5253, NMCosta@unicefusa.org