16 May 2022

While the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM)has reportedly restored normalcy in the country’s Cabo Delgado province, there is need to close gaps that can reverse the gains achieved.   

Following a briefing by the SADC Regional Coordination Mechanism in Maputo on Sunday, Vice President, Mr Slumber Tsogwane applauded the troops for the success but warned that their efforts would count for nothing if the terrorists returned. 

He explained that the deployment of troops was never meant to be permanent. The intention was to eliminate acts of terrorism and clear the ground for peace and stability, said the vice president. 

 Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Lemogang Kwape, concurred with the vice president on SAMIM’s success saying it was noticeable. 

He said since the deployment of troops, beheading incidents of were no longer being reported.

Dr Kwape commended the Botswana troops for raising the nation’s flag high. 

 Another cabinet member, Minister of Defence and Security, Mr Kagiso Mmusi said although the mission had been tough, a lot had been achieved, as the tourist attraction area had seen some tourists coming back. 

Mr Mmusi said the community had also resumed socio-economic activities such as farming. 

Gaborone Central MP, Mr Tumisang Healey, who is part of the vice president’s delegation, said the Botswana Defence Force had an impeccable peace keeping record and called for it to be supported. 

Mr Healy described the visit to Mozambique as an eye opener. 

Also part of the delegation  were MPs Motsamai Motsamai, John Thite and Onneetse Ramogapi for Gantsi South, Gantsi North and Palapye respectively as well as Real Alternative Party leader, Mr Gaontebale Mokgosi. 

SAMIM, mandated to combat terrorism and acts of violent extremism in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province, comprises eight personnel contributing countries of Botswana, Angola, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, South Africa, Tanzania and Zambia. ends