EU renews support for Rwanda’s troops in Mozambique

Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo confirms EU will continue funding Rwanda’s mission in Cabo Delgado, ensuring stability, training, and reconstruction efforts.

President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique announced that the European Union will continue supporting Rwanda’s military mission in Cabo Delgado. He emphasized that discussions are underway to renew agreements that sustain this cooperation, which has been crucial since Rwandan forces first deployed in 2021.

Chapo clarified that EU assistance does not include military equipment. Instead, it focuses on financing operations and providing training for security forces. Rwanda’s deployment will remain backed by both Mozambique’s government budget and EU contributions, ensuring continuity in the fight against terrorism.

The Mozambican government is also seeking support for reconstruction in Cabo Delgado, where infrastructure was destroyed by insurgent attacks. Chapo stressed that peace is the foundation of development, and rebuilding communities is as vital as military action.

Rwandan troops, deployed in July 2021, have played a decisive role in reclaiming territories from insurgents linked to ISIS. Their presence has been a stabilizing force, though recent uncertainty arose when the EU considered suspending its €20 million support following U.S. sanctions. Rwanda warned it might withdraw troops if funding was cut, raising concerns about sustainability.

Chapo reaffirmed Mozambique’s commitment to exploring all possible paths to lasting peace, including dialogue. He stated: “It is difficult to know when terrorism will end. That is why we are doing everything possible, including exploring dialogue. What we want is for this to end, because peace is the foundation of development.”