This archive report was first published on 27 September 2021.
Published on September 27, 2021, a statement from the Southern African Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) revealed that their forces had engaged in a series of battles against terrorist groups in Cabo Delgado province.
On Sunday, SAMIM forces destroyed a terrorist base in Chitama, killing 17 insurgents in the process. The operation also resulted in the death of one SAMIM member and injuries to three others, who are reportedly recovering well.
Additionally, SAMIM forces clashed with another group of terrorists south of the Messalo River on Sunday, resulting in the death of one insurgent and the recovery of three rifles. Another terrorist was captured and is being questioned.
The deployment of SADC forces to Mozambique began in July, with Rwanda being the first country to send 1,000 troops to assist the Mozambican Defence Force in fighting insurgency and terrorism in the northern region. Botswana followed with a contingent of 296 soldiers, while South Africa deployed 1,500 soldiers. Zimbabwe also sent 304 military instructors to train Mozambican soldiers to combat the insurgents.
Angola is also part of the SAMIM forces, alongside Botswana, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. By the end of July, Rwandan soldiers had fought several engagements against the extremists, resulting in the deaths of at least 30 insurgents. On August 8, Rwandan forces took control of the key northern port of Mocimboa da Praia from the extremist militants.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame expressed his country's commitment to supporting Mozambique in its fight against terrorism, saying, "Rwanda will continue to be a good partner, a good friend to Mozambique. We will continue to work together, including with other partners, to transform our continent for the better."
