08 Aug 2021

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi is in Pemba, Mozambique where he will today launch the SADC Mission in Mozambique. 

Addressing the media before his departure yesterday(August 8), Dr Masisi said he would launch the mission in his capacity as SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security chairperson. 

Botswana sent a Botswana Defence Force (BDF) contingent to Mozambique to help in peacekeeping efforts two weeks ago. 

Dr Masisi said SADC member states sent peacekeeping troops to Mozambique at the country’s request following acts of terrorism and violent extremism. 

He said as a sovereign state, Mozambique also sought assistance from Rwanda, which had also deployed troops to the country.

Dr Masisi said Mozambique engaged SADC on the decision to have Rwandese troops helping in that country. 

Meanwhile a media statement from Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation says the peacekeeping mission is testament to the collective commitment by SADC member states to foster and promote regional peace and security. 

  It says the launch will also be attended by Mozambique president Mr Filipe Nyusi, who is also SADC chairperson, Professor Mpho Molomo, special representative of the organ chairperson and SADC mission head as well as senior government officials.

President Masisi, who returns home later today,  is accompanied by ministers Dr Lemogang Kwape and Mr Kagiso Mmusi of International Affairs and Cooperation and Minister of Defence, Justice and Security respectively and senior government officials. ends