The delegation comprises representatives of all 15 member states that make up the Peace and Security Council of the AU.
In a statement, AU said the council is undertaking the field mission as part of its mandate to promote peace, security and stability in Africa. The mission is also part of combined efforts to promote the implementation of the AU Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to put an end to warfare in Africa by the Year 2030.
Cabo Delgado Province in northern Mozambique has been grappling with a security crisis since late 2017. An insurgency, primarily driven by the extremist group Ansar al-Sunna, has led to widespread violence, displacement, and economic disruption in the region.
AU said the security delegation will camp in Maputo for three days to gather first-hand information regarding the security, social and humanitarian situation prevailing in Cabo Delgado.
The delegation has also been tasked with assessing the progress made in combating the insurgency and evaluating the impact of the Southern African Development Community Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM), considering its planned withdrawal.
'By undertaking the field mission, the PSC is also expressing AU solidarity with the people and government of Mozambique and reaffirming the AU commitment to continue supporting them in their relentless efforts to eradicate terrorism and violent extremism. This will help to restore durable peace, security stability and development in the country, which will tremendously benefit not only Cabo Delgado Province but also the Southern Africa region and the African Continent as a whole,' AU said.
The council also seeks to draw lessons from Mozambique's experience and best practices, including in the implementation of disarmament demobilization and reintegration (DDR) programs and disaster preparedness and management.
'The first-hand information to be gathered during the PSC field mission will be critically necessary as it will help to adopt evidence-based and well-informed decisions in supporting efforts of the government of Mozambique to restore durable peace, security, stability and development in the Cabo Delgado Province,' AU added.
The insurgency in Cabo Delgado began in October 2017 with Ansar al-Sunna expressing discontent over lack of economic benefits from natural gas in the region, allegations of government corruption and marginalization of local communities.
However, over the years that followed the rebellion escalated with the militia employing violent tactics, including attacks on civilians and security forces and destruction of property.
The Mozambique government struggled to contain the militia forcing it to seek military support from Rwanda and Southern Africa Development and Defense Advisory Council (SADDC) forces.
Currently, Rwanda has more than 2,500 troops in Mozambique. The Rwanda Defence Forces (RDF) has indicated that the security situation in the country continues to improve.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
