Mozambique’s President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces (FADM), Daniel Chapo, presided over the graduation of 525 Mozambican troops who completed an advanced infantry training programme conducted by instructors from the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF).
The pass-out ceremony took place on Friday, May 23, at the Nacala Training Center in Nampula Province, following a rigorous six-month course.
President Chapo expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Rwandan President Paul Kagame and the RDF for their unwavering support in strengthening peace and security in Mozambique, particularly in the conflict-affected northern province of Cabo Delgado.
“The last time such a course was conducted in Mozambique was in 2011 by the United States forces. It is a rare and invaluable gesture for an allied country to train another’s national forces. FADM and the entire nation of Mozambique deeply appreciate Rwanda’s effort,” Chapo said.
RDF instructors trained the Mozambican troops in high-level infantry and counter-terrorism operations. The training included counter-insurgency tactics, urban warfare, close-quarters combat, hostage rescue, covert reconnaissance, and rapid-response operations—skills designed to enhance Mozambique’s capacity to combat evolving security threats.
Maj Gen Emmy Ruvusha, Commander of Rwanda Security Forces in Mozambique, commended the strong cooperation between the two countries and urged the graduates to apply their new skills in safeguarding Mozambique’s sovereignty.
“Training is a continuous process. You must use what you’ve learned to help ensure lasting security and stability for your nation,” Ruvusha told the graduates.
The ceremony featured tactical demonstrations, where the new graduates executed simulated counter-terrorism operations and Special Forces maneuvers, reflecting the high standard of RDF’s instruction. Notably, six female operatives were among the graduates, highlighting the commitment to gender inclusivity in defence, one of Rwanda’s core values.
This graduation represents a key milestone in the ongoing partnership between Mozambique and Rwanda. Since 2021, RDF has been instrumental in helping Mozambique push back Islamic State-linked insurgents in Cabo Delgado. Their contributions, supported by regional and international partners, have not only degraded militant capabilities but also strengthened bilateral ties and promoted regional stability.
The newly graduated soldiers are now equipped to take on complex security challenges, playing a crucial role in Mozambique’s fight against terrorism and its broader quest for peace and national development.
