The Role of regional security architecture in countering terrorism in SADC: a case study of Cabo Delgado, Mozambique

Abstract

The study aimed to examine the role of regional cooperation in countering terrorism using the case study of Mozambique. The research questions sought to understand why terrorism emerged in Cabo Delgado province; probe the role of regional security arrangements in fighting terrorism; investigate why Mozambique turned to Rwanda for security in the wake of terrorist activities within her borders and how regional and national security can be improved in the fight against terrorism. The research population consisted of Mozambican government officials, SADC region member states, SADC organ on defence, NGOs concerned with terrorism and academics (2020 participants). Purposive sampling allowed the research to select participants with valuable information pertaining to the topic under study. Semi structured interviews, qualitative questionnaires and academic publications were used as data gathering tools in the qualitative study. The research found that religious and political differences are important factors in the emergence of violence and terrorist activity in Cabo Delgado as the increased tensions and misunderstandings. SADC mission to Mozambique was not well equipped and lacked adequate coordination. Furthermore, Mozambique proved to be a reliable partner in fighting Islamic insurgence in Cabo Delgado due to experience in counterinsurgency and disciplined military units. The research recommended that African countries should work together to standardise training and implementation of national and regional security measures to effectively deal with security threats emanating from terrorist activities.