Rwanda wants more funds to keep troops in Mozambique

KIGALI, Rwanda

Rwanda wants additional funding to keep its troops in Mozambique's troubled northern Cabo Delgado region where they are fighting Islamist militants.

A 1,000-strong Rwandan force was deployed to the region last year and has since recaptured many villages and towns from the militants.

Rwandan High Commissioner to Mozambique said they had asked the European Union for financial support for the troops to bring the situation in the region under control.

“We ask [for assistance from] partners like the European Union, which is considering our request, and we hope they help us. And the two countries have many friends and we believe they want to see Cabo Delgado safe and stable," said Claude Nikobisanzwe.

He said there were visible improvements in areas recaptured by Rwandan troops.

“We have stabilised our areas like the district of Palma and Mocímboa da Praia. We are waiting for the [Mozambican] government to make a decision and see if the population can return," said Mr Nikobisanzwe.

He said there was no deadline for Rwandan troops' presence in the country. - BBC