The Mozambican special forces, trained by the European Union (EU) to tackle insurgent activities in the Cabo Delgado region, have demonstrated notable progress on the field, says Rogério Martins de Brito, commander of the EU Training Mission in Mozambique (EUTM).
These forces have been designed as Quick Reaction Forces (QRF), with capabilities such as high mobility, readiness, flexibility, interoperability, and command control to adapt to the unique challenges posed by the local insurgency.
However, while the performance of these units has seen minor setbacks, Brito cautioned that solely relying on QRFs will not eliminate insurgent activity, as these units are suited for precision operations, not regular patrolling or territorial control.
These forces are engaging in offensive action against insurgents, working in conjunction with the Mozambican, Southern African Development Community (SADC), and Rwandan regular forces.
Since its two-year mandate began in September 2022, EUTM has trained nearly 60 Mozambican instructors to continue training the nation’s special forces and has provided them with combat equipment, totaling over 80 million euros.
Brito also advocates for greater coordination and presence of civil organizations, humanitarian aid agencies, and government bodies in Cabo Delgado, underscoring that military response alone cannot eradicate violent extremism in the area.
Moreover, EUTM’s training integrates core EU values, including human rights, international humanitarian law, non-discrimination, and protection of vulnerable groups.
The training’s end goal is to form 11 Mozambican QRF units, each equivalent to a military company.
Cabo Delgado has been under armed insurgency for six years, causing significant displacement and loss of life.
Despite recent liberation efforts, new attacks have emerged in the south and neighbouring Nampula province.