Rédaction Africa Links 24 with The Africa Links 24
Published on 2024-04-10 09:32:18
The Botswana Defence Force (BDF) has commenced the process of withdrawing its troops from Mozambique as part of the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM). This withdrawal is set to be completed by June, as announced by SADC. The BDF’s involvement in SAMIM has been focused on offensive operations to combat terrorists in the conflict-affected Cabo Delgado province, as well as the implementation of quick impact projects that have facilitated the return of Internally Displaced People (IDPs) to their normal lives.
Botswana contributed five contingents of troops and military equipment to SAMIM, which was launched in July 2021 and is expected to conclude in June 2024. The last BDF contingent arrived in Mozambique in October 2023. While the specific reasons for SAMIM’s exit have not been disclosed, Mozambique’s foreign affairs minister Veronica Macamo cited financial constraints as a key factor, stating challenges in raising funds to sustain the mission.
In the wake of SADC’s withdrawal from Mozambique, Rwanda is poised to increase its troop presence in the region. Despite not receiving official notification of SADC’s departure, Rwanda, aided by a 20 million Euro grant from the European Union, is preparing to deploy additional troops to Cabo Delgado province. These troops are expected to arrive following the departure of SAMIM forces in July, as agreed upon during SADC’s extraordinary summit on Defence, Politics, and Security in late March.
It is crucial to note the ongoing cooperation between regional and international actors in addressing security challenges in Mozambique. While the withdrawal of BDF troops signals the conclusion of one phase of intervention, Rwanda’s commitment to bolstering its presence underscores the importance of continued efforts to stabilize the situation in Cabo Delgado. The transition from SADC to Rwanda’s involvement reflects the dynamic nature of security operations and the need for coordinated responses to complex security threats in the region.
In conclusion, the withdrawal of BDF troops from Mozambique and the subsequent arrival of Rwandan forces mark a significant development in the ongoing efforts to address security challenges in Cabo Delgado. As SADC concludes its mission, Rwanda’s commitment to increasing its troop presence highlights the continued international support for stabilizing the region and facilitating the return of IDPs to their homes. The coordination between regional and international partners underscores the importance of collaborative approaches in addressing security threats and promoting peace and stability in Mozambique.
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