Rwanda helps retake Mozambique port from IS rebels

Rwanda has helped Mozambique to retake a strategic port that had been held by Islamic extremist rebels for the past year.

A joint force of Mozambican and Rwandan troops have regained control of Mocímboa da Praia in northern Mozambique, the two countries' defence ministries announced.

The retaking of the town is a notable success for the 1,000-strong Rwandan force that was deployed to Mozambique last month.

Since arriving in Mozambique in July, Rwanda's troops have rapidly helped Mozambique's armed forces achieve victories against the insurgents, who had until now made the north-eastern part of Cabo Delgado province all but uninhabitable.

Joint operations between Mozambican and Rwandan forces — whose deployment is reportedly being financed by France —  have forced the rebels to retreat "from the zones where they have exerted relative influence," a senior Mozambican military officer said.

The joint force had taken control of public and private buildings in Mocímboa da Praia, including local government offices, the port, the airport, the hospital, markets, and restaurants, the officer said.