CHIEF OF STAFF, TANZANIA PEOPLE’S DEFENCE FORCE VISITS MISSION AREA

The Chief of Staff, Tanzania People’s Defence Force (TPDF), Lieutenant General Matthew Edward Mkingule on 24^th January 2022 visited SAMIM forces deployed in the Cabo Delgado Province on a one-day familiarization official tour.

The General, accompanied by Senior Staff from TPDF were briefed on the operational successes achieved by SAMIM since its launch last July. Tanzania, alongside, Botswana, Lesotho and Republic of South Africa deployed their forces in Cabo Delgado Province to bring peace and stability in the region to fight the terrorism orchestrated by Al Sunnah wa Jama’ah (ASWJ). Among others, TPDF has also deployed a Medical Team in the mission area and according to General Mkingule, his Defence Force will further increase his existing troops in the mission area to address operational gaps.

He commended the Force Commander of SAMIM, Major General Xolani Mankayi and his Staff for making great strides in achieving the end state despite the challenges that are always inherent in fighting a non-conventional war.

“We appreciate your efforts in doing such a commendable work. Challenges are always there but we still have to fight and win the war. The security of Mozambique is part of our security,” the General stated.

On a somber note, the General paid tribute to the fallen heroes and those injured in the line of duty.

General Mkingule and his delegation paid a Courtesy Call on the Head of the Mission, Professor Mpho Molomo and were taken on a guided tour of some facilities within the mission area. Furthermore, he visited Nangade village where United Republic of Tanzania and Kingdom of Lesotho are deployed.

Meanwhile, Commander of Rwandan Security Forces deployed in the Cabo Delgado Province, Major General Innocent Kabandana on the same day visited SAMIM HQ in order to solidify the existing cooperation and coordination between the forces in the operational area. The Commanders corroborated to find a common ground to fight the terrorism.

SAMIM would like to assure the people of Mozambique and SADC of a collective commitment to achieving a peaceful, stable and secure Cabo Delgado as well as the entire country of Mozambique.ISSUED BY SAMIM