- South Africa’s President, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa, says as the world strives to emerge from the economic devastation of the COVID-19 pandemic, neighbouring countries like Mozambique and South Africa must continue to deepen and strengthen the already existing ties between them.
- The South African President highlighted the significant impact Mozambique’s natural gas resources can make not only the people of Mozambique and South Africa, but also the rest of the SADC region.
The President was speaking at a Plenary Session of the third South Africa-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Pretoria. The commission promotes cooperation between the two countries and encompasses committees in politics and diplomacy, defence and security, the economy and social development.
“Our two countries share a common view on issues of peace, stability, economic development, regional and continental integration.
“We are both undertaking programmes to advance youth development, women’s empowerment, poverty alleviation and job creation.
Related news: Mozambique’s Coral Sul floating gas platform to start production in October
“These are some of the concrete steps we are taking to realise the vision of the AU’s Agenda 2063 and to improve the lives of our people,” President Ramaphosa said on Friday.
President Ramaphosa told the commission that South Africa is expanding cooperation with Mozambique, particularly in the energy sector.
Related news: Gas exporting countries forum courts Mozambique
Currently, the country supplies South Africa with at least 1 000MW of electricity per day from the Cahora Bassa Hydroelectric power station.
“Mozambique remains one of South Africa’s top trading partners in the region, and there are several opportunities for expansion. South Africa is keen, in particular, to expand cooperation in the energy sector.
“Mozambique is endowed with significant volumes of natural gas. This can benefit not only the people of Mozambique and South Africa, but also the rest of the SADC region.
“Energy security is vital to economic growth in our respective countries, and we look forward to significant progress towards securing and sustaining our energy needs,” the President said.
President Ramaphosa recommitted South Africa’s support – through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) – for Mozambique in the fight against terrorism-backed conflict and insurgency in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado region where TotalEnergies mega gas project in Alfungi has come to a halt because of the violent insurgency attacks. Read more
South Africa has sent troops to the region as part of the SADC regional forces which includes crack troops from Rwanda. Read more
Author: Bryan Groenendaal
