UN Commends Mozambique for Disarmament and Demobilisation Process

UN Commends Mozambique for Disarmament and Demobilisation Process

A Praise-Worthy Achievement

The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has lauded the Mozambique government and its citizens for successfully concluding the disarmament and demobilisation phase of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) process. The commendation was made during a meeting with Mozambique’s President, Filipe Nyusi, at the 78th annual meeting of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. Their discussions revolved around the challenges of peace and development in Mozambique.

Understanding the DDR Process

Initiated in 2018, the DDR process involved more than 5,000 former guerrillas of the Mozambican National Resistance (Renamo) – the country’s largest opposition party. This included 257 women. The process concluded in June with the closure of the Vunduzi base in the district of Gorongosa, central province of Sofala. This closure marked the final Renamo base and symbolized the end of the demobilisation process for the guerrillas, who began to surrender their weapons in 2019.

Symbolizing the End of Conflict

The closure came nearly 31 years after the end of the Mozambican civil war, indicating the end of the demobilisation process for the guerrillas who began to surrender their weapons in 2019. This significant event symbolizes a significant step towards a lasting peace in Mozambique, a country that has been marred by periods of conflict and unrest.

Transitioning Towards Reintegration

The next phase of the DDR process is reintegration, which includes the commencement of pension payments to demobilised personnel, a process reportedly in its final stages. This phase is an essential part of the Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement signed between the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo) government and Renamo in August 2019. This agreement was the third of its kind, with the previous two violated, leading to armed conflict due to disputed election results by the main opposition party.

Significance of Successful Disarmament and Demobilization

The successful disarmament and demobilisation process marks a significant step towards lasting peace in Mozambique. The closure of the last Renamo base was a key part of the Peace and National Reconciliation Agreement signed between the Frelimo government and Renamo. The success of this process not only signifies a move towards peace but also serves as an example for other nations grappling with similar conflicts.

Looking Forward to Lasting Peace

While the disarmament and demobilisation phase of the DDR process is a significant accomplishment, the journey towards lasting peace in Mozambique is far from over. The reintegration phase, which is currently underway, is a crucial next step. This phase will involve the reintegration of former combatants into society, an initiative that requires the concerted effort of all Mozambicans. The successful completion of this phase will signal a new era of peace and stability in Mozambique, marking the end of decades of conflict and strife.