SOUTH Africa and Mozambique signed multiple memoranda of understanding on Tuesday aimed at strengthening cooperation across energy, mining, infrastructure, and other strategic sectors, as the two nations concluded their 4th Bi-National Commission meeting.
Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Daniel Chapo oversaw the signing of the agreements, which they described as providing fresh impetus to concrete cooperation between the neighbouring countries.
“Through your leadership, I have no doubt that as neighbours with common purpose and determination, South Africa and Mozambique will use this Bi-National Commission to achieve practical benefits,” Ramaphosa told Chapo following the conclusion of talks in Maputo.
New Cooperation Framework
The memoranda of understanding signed on Tuesday cover cooperation in energy, mining, infrastructure, agriculture, financial services, telecommunications, health, tourism, and hospitality. The leaders also agreed to pursue enhanced collaboration on defence, security, and border management.
Ramaphosa emphasised that both nations have “a historic responsibility to our respective peoples to ensure that current and future generations appreciate the fruits of this strategic relationship.”
The agreements build on progress since the previous commission session held in Pretoria in 2022, with comprehensive reports presented by ministers following deliberations between senior officials and technical experts from both countries.
Gas Facility Launch
The two presidents were scheduled to travel to Inhambane Province on Tuesday afternoon to jointly inaugurate a gas facility developed by South African energy company Sasol. Ramaphosa hailed the project as “another shining example of how two friendly neighbours can collaborate effectively” and a model for public-private sector partnerships.
The facility results from a gas cooperation agreement signed between the two countries in 2004, with Sasol as a joint venture partner.
Economic Partnership
Mozambique stands as South Africa’s largest trading partner in the region and ranks in the top quartile of South Africa’s exports globally. More than 300 South African companies currently operate in Mozambique.
“South Africa’s development finance institutions, state-owned enterprises and private companies stand ready to be partners,” Ramaphosa said, noting he had met with South African business leaders with continental investments on the eve of last month’s G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg.
Those companies “confirmed their unwavering commitment to Africa’s growth and development,” he added.
Ramaphosa called for increased Mozambican investment in South Africa and said both nations would work together to explore new opportunities, leveraging their rich natural resources both on land and offshore.
Energy and Infrastructure Focus
Energy collaboration emerged as a central pillar of discussions. Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of the Cahora Bassa hydroelectric dam to South Africa’s energy security and expressed support for Mozambique’s Mphanda Nkuwa Hydropower project.
A Memorandum on Energy Cooperation was among the agreements signed during the session.
The president also pointed to progress on the Maputo Development Corridor, a major transportation network and economic zone connecting the two economies, which has facilitated the movement of goods and people while boosting tourism and other sectors.
South Africa seeks to deepen cooperation on mineral resources, including graphite, iron ore, and tantalum, with financial support extended through the Development Bank of Southern Africa, Industrial Development Corporation, and Export Credit Insurance Corporation.
Historic Bonds
Speaking at the opening of the working visit earlier Tuesday, Ramaphosa emphasised the historic bonds between the two nations, rooted in their shared struggle against colonialism and apartheid. He expressed gratitude for Mozambique’s support during South Africa’s liberation struggle.
“The brave people of Mozambique paid a heavy price for their solidarity with us in our struggle against apartheid rule. For this we remain eternally grateful,” he said.
Both nations aim to leverage opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Area to strengthen intra-African trade and build economic resilience.
Regional Security
On regional security matters, Ramaphosa expressed concern about conflicts in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and South Sudan. He called for redoubled efforts to combat terrorism and extremism while striving for global peace and respect for international law.
The meeting comes as both nations face increasing global challenges and threats to multilateralism, with Ramaphosa calling for continued cooperation to advance peace, sustainable development, and inclusive economic growth in the region.
Ramaphosa thanked Chapo for his hospitality, saying it “reflects the deep bonds of friendship and solidarity between our nations. South Africans and Mozambicans are one people.”
The 5th session of the Bi-National Commission is scheduled to be held in South Africa, where leaders expect to report on further progress in bilateral relations.
