Minister Mulimba Advocates for Strengthened Defence Cooperation with Mozambique
The State Minister for Regional Affairs, John Mulimba, has urged for enhanced defense and security cooperation between Uganda and Mozambique, stressing the need for joint efforts in combating terrorism, insurgency, and transnational crime.
His call was made during the 2nd Uganda-Mozambique Joint Permanent Commission meeting held in Kampala.
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Mulimba highlighted the shared security challenges faced by both nations, noting that practical measures are necessary to tackle these threats.
“Security and stability remain at the forefront of our agenda. Both Uganda and Mozambique have experienced the challenges posed by insecurity, conflict, and threats of terror. We are committed to working together to address these threats,” he stated.
Although no formal agreements were signed during the session, Mulimba expressed optimism that discussions would lead to stronger collaboration on defense and regional stability in the near future.
He also emphasised the broader significance of the two nations as leaders in their respective regions, urging them to promote peace and development across Africa.
“Through initiatives like the Joint Permanent Commission, we are setting an example of how bilateral cooperation can serve as a catalyst for broader regional integration,” Mulimba added.
The meeting offered an opportunity for officials from both Uganda and Mozambique to discuss a range of security issues, but concrete steps toward formalized defense cooperation have yet to be taken.
Historically, Uganda and Mozambique have maintained close ties, particularly in the area of defense.
Their cooperation dates back to the liberation struggles of the 1970s when Mozambique’s FRELIMO (Mozambique Liberation Front) supported Ugandan exiles, including President Museveni's group, which would later form the National Resistance Army (NRA).
Following Museveni's rise to power in 1986, the relationship between the two countries strengthened, with Uganda often referencing Mozambique’s successful guerrilla tactics as a model.
Over the years, Uganda and Mozambique have collaborated on regional security matters, particularly in the Great Lakes Region and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
In recent times, the two countries have cooperated in counterterrorism efforts and in combating insurgencies, such as Uganda’s involvement in intelligence sharing and military support in northern Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado region, where Islamist insurgencies pose a serious threat.
Uganda and Mozambique’s partnership is seen as critical to addressing security challenges within East and Southern Africa, and both nations are expected to play key roles in shaping the future of regional peace and stability.
