As reported by the European Union, Rwanda is set to obtain a further €20 million from the European Peace Facility to support its military measures in combating terrorism in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado province. This funding augments the Rwandan Defense Force’s continuous deployment, which started in July 2021 at the invitation of Mozambican officials.
On November 18, the European Council informed the funding, reaffirming its dedication to restoring stability in the territory, which terror groups have destroyed for years. The support will fund personal equipment for RDF troops and shield strategic airlift costs essential for maintaining operations in Cabo Delgado.
“This support will allow the acquisition of personal gear and cover costs associated with the strategic airlift required to support the Rwandan deployment,”
the European Council stated in a statement.
The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, highlighted the crucial role Rwandan detachments played in stabilising Cabo Delgado, especially after the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique withdrew.
“The presence of the Rwanda Defence Force troops has been instrumental to making progress and remains key, especially given the recent withdrawal of the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM). This top-up measure is a testimony of the EU’s support for African solutions for African problems and, as part of the global fight against terrorism, it will also serve EU interests in the region.”
Borrell stated.
Cabo Delgado has been confronting an armed rebellion since 2017 that has disrupted several multi-billion-dollar oil and natural gas schemes. Three years ago, Rwanda deployed 1,000 soldiers to battle alongside Mozambique’s armed defence and was joined by SAMIM. The number of Rwandan soldiers and police has grown to around 4000, while SAMIM withdrew around July 2024. Three years after their deployment to Cabo Delgado, the Rwandan army undoubtedly succeeded on the battleground. They have lowered the insurgents’ firepower, dislodged them from their main commands, and restored stability around Cabo Delgado.
