SA and Mozambique cement ties

It has long been President Zuma’s intention to strengthen relations between SA and the country that hosted him during apartheid.

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It has long been President Jacob Zuma’s intention to strengthen and deepen relations between South Africa and the country that hosted him during the Struggle against apartheid.

Zuma was the ANC’s representative in Mozambique, one of the Frontline States during the 1970s and 1980s.

Since Zuma assumed the presidency, he has ensured important historical events, such as the 1981 Matola raid by apartheid forces on ANC soldiers in Mozambique, were remembered.

Thirty-four years ago, the Matola raid was designed to polarise the two nations, but relations today are stronger than ever.

On Thursday, Zuma took the initiative to deepen relations between the two neighbours, in terms of both economic and political collaboration.

Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi was warmly welcomed by Zuma on his first state visit to South Africa, and both leaders recommitted themselves to work together on a number of important initiatives.

To date, there are 69 agreements and memoranda of understanding between the two countries, with growing co-operation in trade and investment, defence and security, anti-poaching strategies and transport.

Trade and investment between South Africa and Mozambique has seen a 50 percent increase over the past decade, and the Business Forum which was created this week will serve to escalate trade ties.

Of particular significance are the joint projects launched in the field of energy, with the relevant ministers implementing projects in gas infrastructure and development.

Tourism, agriculture, and science and technology are other areas of potential co-operation which are being explored.

Detailed discussions on peace and security in the region were held, given the important role Nyusi will play as the new chair of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation.

Under the leadership of Mozambique, SADC has deployed an election observer mission to Tanzania for the country’s national elections this weekend.

Given the urgency of the rhino poaching crisis, which has worsened over the past year due to increased and more sophisticated poachers emanating from Mozambique, it is hoped that new strategies to fight the poaching scourge featured high on the agenda when the presidents met.

Independent Foreign Services