On Thursday, at Kami Military Base, the Rwanda Defence Force Army Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Vincent Nyakarundi, gave guidance to a contingent of soldiers and police preparing to deploy on a peacekeeping mission in Cabo Delgado Province, Mozambique, to replace their colleagues already stationed there.
Senior Security Officials Attend Briefing
The event was also attended by Rwanda National Police Deputy Commissioner in charge of Operations, CP Vincent B. Sano.
The Ministry of Defence stated that “Maj Gen Nyakarundi conveyed the message of His Excellency the President of the Republic and Commander-in-Chief of the Rwanda Defence Force, emphasizing the importance of good conduct, self-protection and unity as key pillars for the success of the mission.”
Mission Focused on Civilian Protection
Maj Gen Nyakarundi reminded the contingent that their primary duty is to protect civilians from terrorist activities. He encouraged them to represent Rwanda well, uphold discipline, work together professionally, and continue fulfilling their responsibilities by following the good example set by their predecessors.
He also spoke about the security situation, urging them to remain vigilant, use effective counter-terrorism tactics, and intensify efforts to eliminate threats to peace.
Mozambique Assumes Mission Costs
These soldiers and police are being deployed after the Government of Mozambique agreed to cover all costs of the mission in Cabo Delgado, instead of relying on support from some European countries.
Rwanda’s Continued Role in Cabo Delgado
Rwanda began sending troops and police to Cabo Delgado in 2021 to combat terrorism.
The province had been under insurgent control since 2017, with 3,000 civilians killed and 800,000 displaced. Since Rwanda’s security forces arrived, they have restored stability, and Mozambique announced that over 90% of Cabo Delgado has been secured, allowing residents to return home.
