The Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) announced the official withdrawal of its forces on Thursday, July 4th, 2024, signifying the end of their peacekeeping mission in the war-torn province of Cabo Delgado.
SADC, a 16-member regional bloc, deployed a 3,000-strong force in 2021 to assist Mozambican authorities in combating a violent insurgency that has plagued the region since 2017.
The insurgency, rooted in socio-economic and political grievances, has displaced countless civilians and claimed thousands of lives.
At the closing ceremony held in Pemba, Mozambique’s Defense Minister Cristovao Chume praised SAMIM’s contribution.
He highlighted the regional force’s role in bolstering Mozambique’s military capabilities and facilitating progress against the insurgency.
Chume hailed the mission as a model for African solidarity and a successful strategy for tackling regional security threats.
Despite the gains made, Chume acknowledged the ongoing presence of scattered insurgent groups continuing to disrupt the lives of local residents.
While economic activity has begun to resume, the fight against terrorism in Cabo Delgado appears far from over.
Mozambique’s security forces, along with Rwandan troops who remain in the region, will now shoulder the responsibility of maintaining stability and ensuring lasting peace in Cabo Delgado.
