Rwanda has warned it may withdraw its troops from northern Mozambique if international partners do not provide more funding for the ongoing counter-terrorism mission in Cabo Delgado Province.
Rwandan government spokesperson Yolande Makolo said on social media that Rwanda’s military deployment, which began in 2021 at Mozambique’s request, has helped stabilise parts of the gas-rich region previously overrun by armed groups.
The mission has received financial assistance from the European Union, which has provided about $23 million so far. However, Makolo said this represents only a small portion of the overall cost, adding that Rwanda has spent at least ten times more to sustain the operation.
She warned that if the contribution and efforts of the Rwanda Defence Force are not sufficiently recognised, military commanders could recommend ending the bilateral arrangement and withdrawing troops.
Rwanda’s Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe echoed the message, stating that Kigali would be ready to leave Mozambique if its contributions are not appreciated.
The insurgency in Cabo Delgado began in 2017 and has killed thousands of civilians while displacing more than 1.3 million people, according to the United Nations. It has also disrupted major economic projects in the region, including liquefied natural gas developments.
Although security has improved in parts of the province since the deployment of Rwandan troops, sporadic attacks by armed groups continue.
Source: TRT Africa
