MAPUTO, Mozambique – President Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana praised Mozambique’s military capabilities, stating that they surpass those of terrorists operating in the northern province of Cabo Delgado.
President Masisi made these comments during his visit to the region alongside Mozambique’s Minister of National Defence, Cristóvão Chume.
“Since 2021, Mozambique has developed capacity that exceeds that of the insurgents,” President Masisi declared on social media.
He highlighted the strong ideals behind the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM), emphasizing solidarity among member nations in times of crisis.
Botswana’s head of state visited military personnel from his country who are actively serving in the SAMIM mission in Cabo Delgado.
The region has been a focal point in the fight against insurgency and terrorism, with Mozambique deploying its forces alongside international support.
President Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique had previously called for decisive decisions regarding the response capacity of the Armed Forces in Cabo Delgado, especially in light of the planned withdrawal of foreign forces.
President Nyusi concurs with Masisi
Nyusi emphasized the need for concrete decisions to ensure an effective response to terrorism after SAMIM and Rwanda forces withdraw.
“To this end, your reflection must also evaluate how to best capitalize on the pool of reservists, engaging them directly or indirectly in various missions in favor of defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of our country,” President Nyusi remarked during the XXIV Coordinating Council of the Ministry of National Defence.
The fight against terrorism in Cabo Delgado involves a multi-faceted approach, with the engagement of citizens and society at large being deemed essential.
President Nyusi urged active participation in the national defense effort, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of former fighters from the liberation struggle.
Last August, the Southern African Development Community (SADC) summit approved the extension of the SAMIM mission in Cabo Delgado for 12 months, until July 2024.
The decision recognized the importance of ongoing efforts to achieve peace and security in the region.
While an assessment mission proposed the complete withdrawal of SAMIM soldiers by July 2024, concerns were raised about the financial stress on member states and the lack of budget for community mobilization efforts to support foreign troops.
The situation in Cabo Delgado has shown signs of improvement, but risks still persist, necessitating continued collaborative efforts to ensure lasting peace and stability.
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