Mozambique seeks Ugandan experience for eradication of terrorism

Maputo, 13 May (AIM) – Mozambican President Daniel Chapo believes that the country may learn from Uganda on how to eradicate Islamist terrorism in the northern province of Cabo Delgado, since this African country has experience in confronting extremist groups.

According to Chapo, who was speaking on Tuesday, in Kampala, during his participation in the ceremony in which Yoweri Museveni was sworn into office for the seventh term as Ugandan President, relations between Mozambique and Uganda are based on historical ties built during the African liberation struggles.

“Uganda has extensive experience in combating terrorism. President Museveni knows Cabo Delgado intimately, and Mozambique considers Uganda an important partner in confronting the terrorism affecting that province,” he stated.

“Our relationship with Uganda is historic. The first 80 fighters in the Ugandan liberation struggle were trained in Mozambique, including President Museveni. He possesses a deep knowledge of Cabo Delgado province, particularly the Montepuez district, where he received military training during the Ugandan armed struggle”, he added.

Chapo also called for deepening economic cooperation between Mozambique and Uganda, with a view to creating better living conditions for their respective peoples.

“The objective is to increasingly strengthen the relations of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, creating conditions for economic development and better living conditions for our peoples,” he emphasized.

According to Chapo, the Mozambican presence at the inauguration ceremony is aimed at reaffirming the historical and political ties between the two countries.

“Given this historical relationship, we found it extremely important to be present at this inauguration. During his investiture speech, Museveni highlighted the role played by Mozambique, Tanzania, and Uganda in the liberation movements of the African continent”, he said.

Museveni – who has been in power since 1986 and amended the Constitution twice to eliminate age and term limits – takes office after a controversial victory contested by his main rival, the musician opposition figure Robert Kyagulanyi Ssentamu, better known as Bobi Wine.

Bobi Wine was forced to flee the country after the election, claiming to fear for his life after the army and police raided his home in Kampala.

(AIM)

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