Rwanda and Mozambique have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthen defence and security cooperation, with both nations highlighting the success of their joint counter-terrorism efforts and pledging to expand collaboration in training, intelligence sharing, and operational coordination.
The renewed pledge came during a three-day working visit to Rwanda by Mozambique’s Minister of Defence, Maj. Gen. Cristóvão Artur Chume, who was accompanied by senior officials.
His team included the Commander of the Mozambican Armed Forces, Maj. Gen. André Rafael Mahunguane, and the Commander of the Law-and-Order Service of the National Police of Mozambique, CP Fabião Pedro Nhancololo.
While in Kigali, the Mozambican delegation held bilateral talks with Rwanda’s Minister of Defence, Juvenal Marizamunda, and the Chief of Defence Staff of the Rwanda Defence Force, Gen. MK Mubarakh.
Their discussions focused on enhancing defence cooperation, with particular attention to the fight against terrorism, capacity building for armed forces, and intelligence exchange.
Speaking after the meeting, Chume underscored that terrorism remains a common challenge for both nations and the wider region.
“Terrorism is not only threatening Mozambique, but also Rwanda and the entire region. Our efforts are common, and we discussed how to improve our response capability, particularly through training, intelligence sharing, and operational coordination,” he said.
Since July 2021, Rwanda has deployed troops and police officers to Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado Province at the request of the Mozambican government.
The mission aimed to support Mozambican forces in repelling Islamist insurgents that had destabilized the region, displacing thousands of residents and paralyzing economic activity.
According to officials, joint operations between Rwandan and Mozambican forces have succeeded in reclaiming key districts, restoring stability, and enabling displaced families to return to their homes.
Minister Chume commended Rwanda’s contribution to the mission, praising the courage and sacrifice of its troops serving in Cabo Delgado.
“We came to Rwanda to recognize the sacrifice of men and women in uniform who are combating terrorism in Mozambique, and to pay homage to those who gave their lives in this noble mission. Their memory will not be forgotten,” he remarked.
He further noted that the cooperation between the two countries is not limited to military operations but also extends to socio-economic development and the broader welfare of citizens.
Mozambique continues to benefit from Rwanda’s support in military training, intelligence cooperation, and other forms of capacity building. The visit also carried a symbolic and historical dimension.
The Mozambican delegation visited the Kigali Genocide Memorial, where they paid tribute to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, before touring the Campaign Against Genocide Museum.
The strengthening of Rwanda-Mozambique defence ties comes at a time when Maputo is consolidating security gains in Cabo Delgado, while tracking down insurgents who have dispersed into smaller groups.
Both governments expressed confidence that their partnership will continue to serve as a model of regional cooperation against terrorism and a foundation for lasting peace.
