The Algerian government has pledged to assist Mozambique in its fight against kidnappings and a jihadist insurgency that primarily affects the northern province of Cabo Delgado.
The agreement came after Mozambican President Filipe Nyusi’s four-day visit to Algeria.
President Nyusi told reporters on Sunday that Algeria “committed immediate support to local forces fighting terrorism.”
He added that the North African country would train troops and send equipment to help fight jihadist groups.
The first guerrillas to take part in Mozambique’s war of liberation were trained in Algeria, so there are deep historical ties between the two countries.
According to reports from Cabo Delgado, the Algerian promise was met by jihadists moving through Quisanga on Friday night, stealing food and causing panic.
Cabo Delgado province, rich in gas and rubies, is a magnet for Islamist groups seeking to exploit its natural resources. Many multinational companies operate in this region.