Rwandan Forces to stay in Mozambique Until 2030
The large-scale natural gas project led by TotalEnergies in Mozambique, which had been suspended for nearly five years due to attacks by Islamist insurgents, officially resumed on Thursday, January 29, 2026. The restart comes amid renewed security assurances, with expectations that the Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) will remain deployed in northern Mozambique for several more years to help guarantee stability.
Valued at approximately USD 20 billion, the project is resuming operations despite the fact that insurgent groups linked to the so-called Islamic State (ISIS) have not been completely eliminated in Cabo Delgado Province. It is within this context that Rwandan troops, first deployed in 2021, are expected to maintain a prolonged presence to ensure security for both civilians and strategic infrastructure.
In a letter addressed to Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo, TotalEnergies CEO Patrick Pouyanné confirmed the decision to restart the project following assurances from the Mozambican government that security conditions had significantly improved, particularly in Cabo Delgado. Central to these guarantees is the continuation of the Rwandan military presence under an expanded Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA).
The Mozambican government stated that the revised agreement allows Rwandan forces to remain in Cabo Delgado for an extended period, at least throughout the construction phase of the liquefied natural gas (LNG) project. Construction is expected to continue until 2029, suggesting that Rwandan troops could stay in Mozambique until 2030 to ensure sustained security and protection of local populations and critical infrastructure.
From Rwanda’s perspective, analysts note that the mission goes beyond counter-insurgency operations. It also plays a crucial role in facilitating the completion of one of Africa’s most significant energy projects—an initiative expected to transform livelihoods, boost regional development, and strengthen long-term economic growth in northern Mozambique.
TotalEnergies and its partners are reportedly preparing to recall workers and contractors immediately, with the first gas production anticipated in 2029. The move marks a major turning point for Mozambique’s energy sector.
The project had been halted in 2021 following deadly insurgent attacks near the Afungi site. Its resumption is now widely seen as a symbol of renewed confidence, underpinned by strong regional cooperation and a bilateral security partnership between Mozambique and Rwanda.
