Mozambican President Daniel Chapo on Friday, 25 September, highlighted the contribution of the Mozambique Armed Defence Forces (FADM) to maintaining peace and territorial integrity — particularly in the ongoing conflict in the country's north — while calling for better conditions to protect military personnel.
"We recognise the effort and dedication of this group of soldiers who have contributed greatly to stability and security in the northern operational theatre in Cabo Delgado province and in Mozambique as a whole," Chapo said during FADM Day celebrations held in Inhambane province.
According to a report by the Portuguese news agency Lusa, the president's address marked the anniversary of the start of the National Liberation Struggle on 25 September 1964, which was waged against Portuguese colonial rule. Chapo described the soldier as the armed forces' "most precious asset" and pressed for improved conditions for their protection.
"No operation should be conducted without adequate preparation. No mission should be carried out without sufficient information. No soldier should be placed unnecessarily at risk. The soldier must be protected because, as I have said, they are the most precious asset of our armed forces," Chapo said, directing his appeal specifically at military commanders.
Despite the advances made by the military on multiple fronts — particularly in the counter-insurgency campaign against the armed groups that have afflicted Cabo Delgado since 2017 — the president, who also serves as commander-in-chief of the FADM, acknowledged significant structural challenges and unmet needs.
Among the principal challenges cited were shortages of equipment, logistical capacity and military infrastructure, as well as concerns related to the sustainability and professionalisation of the armed forces. The anniversary event was held under the theme "FADM, 62 Years Celebrating the Legacy of Liberation, Consolidating Peace and National Defence".
"Together and united, we must cement synergies so that these challenges become a thing of the past," Chapo said, encouraging troops to remain "steadfast and vigilant" in fulfilling their mission to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The anniversary ceremonies also included a decoration ceremony recognising national entities for their contributions across various areas of national development and nation-building. The commemorations are being replicated in all provinces under the guidance of their respective state secretaries.
Source: Diário Económico
Original article: https://www.diarioeconomico.co.mz/?p=547519
