Africa-Press – Mozambique. The Mozambican President today called on the Defence and Security Forces to combat terrorism as a prerequisite for achieving economic independence, warning that the defence of the territory “cannot be delegated” and is the responsibility of all citizens.
“As we mark the start of a new operational year, it is essential that the Ministry of National Defence and the General Staff of the Mozambican Defence Forces take the fight against terrorism as a strategic mission, so that this scourge does not jeopardise the realisation of the great dream of the Mozambican nation, which is the attainment of economic independence,” said Daniel Chapo.
The Head of State spoke in Chimoio, Manica central province, during the opening of the military operational year.
Daniel Chapo stressed the need for a modern and strategic preparation of the armed forces, calling for action against terrorism, a phenomenon he described as having complex national and international ramifications, and reiterating that combating it is a condition for economic independence.
“We know, however, that we will not achieve economic independence without robust defence and without peace. Peace and security are fundamental conditions for achieving economic independence for the Mozambican people,” he said, calling for concrete action.
Gas-rich Cabo Delgado province has been targeted by extremist attacks for eight years, with the first attack recorded on 5 October 2017 in the district of Mocímboa da Praia, with incursions also reported in the neighbouring provinces of Niassa and Nampula.
Chapo demanded well-trained armed forces, with operational superiority, sustainable logistics, interoperable communications, and strong aerial, maritime, and land components, with high capacity for force protection.
The Mozambican Head of State urged the Armed Forces to continue prioritising military and strategic cooperation, participating in joint missions, multinational exercises, and information sharing, strengthening operational capacity and international prestige, while stressing that their primary mission is to protect the country.
“In this exercise of cooperation, we must never delegate our sovereignty. The defence of the homeland cannot be delegated. The defence of Mozambique is, first and foremost, the responsibility of Mozambicans. Friendly forces come to assist us and are welcome,” he reinforced.
The President also wants the Armed Forces to defend natural resources and the environment, especially in Manica province, in central Mozambique, where mining activities have already been suspended due to their harmful effects.
Before the opening ceremony of the military operational year, the Head of State dismissed Eugénio Mutaca from the position of Commander of the Navy branch, appointing Bernardo Nchokomala to the post following his promotion to Rear Admiral.
Source: Lusa
