South Africa: A comprehensive, extensive and all-encompassing staff visit by the SA Development Community Mission in Mozambique Force Commander, Major General Xolani Mankayi, to all SAMIM bases was scheduled and conducted over the period 24 December 2022 to 03 January 2023.
The Force Commander arrived at the Mihluri Base on Wednesday, 27 December 2022; accompanying the Force Commander were Colonel Kaspile, Lieutenant Colonel Ismail, Lieutenant Colonel K.S. Sonyana and Major T. Ntwagae.
Although pitched at a strategic level, the presentation offered insight to members about SA Mission In Mozambique, information regarding logistics and equipment, personnel, cooperation and pledges from contributing SA Development Community member states.
What the majority of members appreciated more was the Operations brief which provided a comprehensive highlight of all the operations successes and challenges conducted since SA Mission In Mozambique was formulated.
The Operational brief left members beaming with pride as details and recordings of all the activities that have been conducted since October 2021.
The Force Commander was eager to be a part of the troops conducting patrols. He indicated a strong desire to experience what the troops on the ground are facing during their regular routine patrols. Going on the patrol also gave an insight to the delegation about the terrain, logistical challenges that may arise and the general local population.
While on patrol, the convoy proceeded onto the N380, passing through Muagamula, Aldei Da Paz, and Nova Vida and finally stopped to speak to the local population in Nova Zambezia. The community members and leaders of this village were welcoming, and they embraced the presence of Combat Team Alpha members.
When asked general questions about life in the village, members expressed that although there is some element of fear for the insurgency, they are comforted by the presence of the SA Mission In Mozambique forces in Macomia. Some expressed gratitude as they were able to observe Christmas day.
The Force Commander also used this opportunity to conduct courtesy calls to the local authorities, the Macomia District Administrator and the Mozambican Armed Forces Base to General Hassen.
These courtesy calls were imperative as cooperation between the Military and civil authorities will strengthen relations which will yield a positive result for the population of Cabo Delgado.
Another crucial element of the visit was for the Force Commander to see progress on the airstrip in Xinanvane. This landing strip is vital because it serves as an alternative to the provision of logistical support for the SA Mission In Mozambique bases in Macomia.
The Force Commander concluded his visit by touring the Mihluri base; impressed with the work done in the base, the Force Commander promised to speed up the processes to ensure that any outstanding demands and requirements needed by the Mihluri base are provided.
