Mozambique: SAMIM Force Commander visits SAMIM bases in Cabo Delgado – SANDF

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Mozambique: SAMIM Force Commander visits SAMIM bases in Cabo Delgado – SANDF

10:12 CAT | 12 May 2022

The visit took place from 26 April to 10 May 2022. [Photo: SANDF]

Major General Xolani Mankayi, the SADC Mission In Mozambique (SAMIM) Force Commander, recently visited the SAMIM Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Macomia, Mueda, Nangande and lastly, the contingents in Pemba.

The Force Commander was accompanied by some of his Senior Staff members from the SAMIM Force Headquarters and commenced with his visit in Macomia on 26 April 2022. In all the Forward Operating Bases visited, a briefing was conducted on the progress of the mission, operational successes achieved by SAMIM since its inception in July 2021 and challenges that align with mandated tasks.

“The purpose of the visit is to experience the situation first hand, and talk to soldiers on the ground with the view to inform them about the progress of the operation and to also understand the challenges that they are facing” the General said.

During the course of the visit, the Force Commander and his delegation met with the Rwandan Security Joint Task Force Commander, Major General Innocent Kabandana and the commander of the land Forces of Mozambique, Maj General Tiago Nampele to discuss operational matters. The meeting took place in Macomia District on 29 April 2022.

The Force Commander also conducted patrols in the operational areas covered by the Forward Operating Bases and he also visited Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camps in Nangade and Mueda.

During his visit to Nangade, the General was touched by the living conditions of the IDPs and he requested members to contribute money for food donations. This notable donation was done by the Force Commander, Force Headquarters Staff, together with Lesotho Contingent and the United Republic of Tanzania Contingent.

The Camp leader expressed his gratitude to the Force Commander as well as acknowledging the presence of SAMIM soldiers in the district “this brings hope that soon we will go back to our villages and start a better life” said the Camp leader.

The SAMIM deployment has brought calm and stability in some areas, as the General noted that almost all the villages in Mueda district are now are occupied.

During his address to the SAMIM Forces, he highlighted that the transition process from scenario 6 to 5 is underway, with expected arrivals of more soldiers from the Personnel Contributing Countries.

“When we go back we will have to look at challenges with an intention of resolving them to make sure that the situation improves on the ground, soldiers are supported, sustained and their welfare is taken care of, so as to boost their morale and to make sure that they feel loved” he said.

The visit was concluded in Pemba, on 09 & 10 May 2022, where by the Force Commander addressed the Botswana Defence Force Contingent, Republic of South Africa Contingent and Staff of Zambia, Namibia, Democratic Republic of Congo and Staff Officers in Pemba.

The General thanked the SAMIM soldiers for availing themselves to the SADC mission.

The Force Commander commended SAMIM Forces for the good work they are doing, and urged them to continue doing their best in degrading the terrorists with the ultimate goal of achieving peace in the region.

SAMIM forces in support of the government of Mozambique continue to create conditions necessary for a return to normal life in the province of Cabo Delgado.