There is still no set date for the withdrawal of foreign troops stationed in Cabo Delgado, in northern Mozambique. The confirmation was given by the President of the Republic, Daniel Chapo, this Sunday (22), in Maputo, as part of the celebrations commemorating the 50th anniversary of national independence, which will be celebrated on 25 June.

According to Daniel Chapo, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence and Security Forces, Mozambique continues to need external military support to combat terrorism that has affected the northern region of the country since 2017.

“When the house is on fire, you need the support of your neighbours. Each person can bring a bucket of water, a drum, a gas cylinder to help put out the fire. It is extremely important to understand that foreign forces are necessary,” said Chapo.

Quoted by RFI, the Mozambican statesman highlighted the role of the SADC Mission (SAMIM), which has already concluded, and the current presence of Rwandan troops as fundamental in the fight against the terrorist groups that have ravaged the provinces of Cabo Delgado, Nampula and Niassa.

Despite the presence of foreign troops, Daniel Chapo made it clear that Mozambique’s intention is to achieve a situation of stability that will allow their withdrawal.

“There has to come a point where we can say: thank you very much for your support, we believe that we are now in a position to defend the country alone. Our neighbours are not supposed to stay in our homes permanently. After putting out the fire, each neighbour returns to his home, and we rebuild ours,” he added.

Terrorism in Cabo Delgado began in October 2017 and has already caused thousands of deaths and displaced people. The attacks have gradually spread to other provinces in the north of the country.