Joint Statement by the International Group of Donors of the National Peace Process
Press release
15 June 2023
PRESS RELEASE
Joint Statement by the International Group of Donors of the National Peace Process on the Occasion of the Demobilization of Vunduzi base.
June 15, 2023
The Ambassadors and High Commissioners of Canada, the European Union, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and the United States, as current contributors to the Peace Process Basket Fund and its associated activities, issued the following statement regarding the latest developments:
“Today marks a momentous milestone on the journey towards achieving definitive peace under the Maputo Accord for Peace and National Reconciliation in Mozambique. With the closure of the Vunduzi base in Sofala province, and the demobilization of all remaining ex-combatants located there, a critical milestone of the Maputo Accord has been achieved.
“As long-time supporters of the national peace process and having accompanied the Peace Process Secretariat’s work from the outset, we commend the President of the Republic of Mozambique, HE Filipe Jacinto Nyusi, and RENAMO President HE Ossufo Momade, for their dedication to dialogue, to finding innovative solutions to complex challenges, and to advancing the full implementation of the Maputo Accord. The efforts made by both parties to ensuring the completion of Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DDR), despite the additional obstacles of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing crisis in Northern Mozambique, stand as a testament to the two leaders’ desire to unify the country and, as per the African Union Agenda 2063, ‘Silence the Guns’.
“The accomplishments of the DDR process would not have been achieved without the support of countless actors committed to peace, including the Military Affairs Commission, the Joint Technical Groups, the United Nations Office for Project Services, other contributing donor countries (Netherlands, Norway), the Contact Group, and the Peace Process Secretariat under the leadership of the Personal Envoy of the United Nations Secretary General for Mozambique, Mirko Manzoni, and Senior Political Advisor, Neha Sanghrajka. The Basket Fund Donors extend congratulations and gratitude to all actors for their determined commitment.
“Although these former combatants have embarked on their transition to civilian life, the work towards definite peace in Mozambique does not end here. It is now time to turn greater attention to the drivers of sustainable peace, including reconciliation and decentralization, and advancing long-term socio-economic reintegration. Inclusion, especially of women and girls, and respect for diversity and human rights are proven pathways to peace around the world. A society in which all people are able to fully and meaningfully participate in all facets of social, economic and political life will be more resilient, peaceful and just. This includes the critical work of women as peacebuilders, negotiators, mediators and activists.
“As a community of international supporters of the national peace process, we urge all actors to continue to take concrete steps towards implementation of the full Maputo Accord, and we, as a community, commit to participating in this process towards achieving a sustainable peace for the future of all Mozambicans.”
For more information, contact
Gavin.Nardocchio-jones@international.gc.ca
High Commission of Canada to Mozambique
