The contingent, led by Joint Task Force Commander Major General Emmy K. Ruvusha, arrived at Kigali International Airport to a warm reception following their contribution to ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in northern Mozambique.
Addressing the troops, Major General Kagame commended their dedication, professionalism, and resilience in the face of operational challenges. He lauded their outstanding achievements over the past year and urged them to continue upholding the highest standards of conduct and discipline as members of the RDF.
Rwandan troops were first deployed to Mozambique's Cabo Delgado Province in July 2021 at the request of the Mozambican government, following years of attacks by Islamic State-linked insurgents.
Since the deployment, joint operations between the Rwanda Security Forces and the Mozambican Defence Armed Forces have significantly weakened the insurgency, restored security in several districts, and facilitated the safe return of thousands of displaced residents.
The return of the contingent comes two months after Mozambican President Daniel Francisco Chapo's visit to Rwanda, during which a renewed Status of Forces Agreement was signed to extend Rwanda's military support in Cabo Delgado.
'Thanks to this cooperation, we can see peace returning to the region,' President Chapo said during his visit, acknowledging Rwanda's crucial role in stabilising Cabo Delgado despite sporadic attacks that still occur.
Wycliffe Nyamasege
