Rwanda helps retake Mozambique port from IS rebels

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

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

retaking of town is a table success for 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 insurgents, who h until w me rth-eastern part of Cabo Delgo province all but uninhabitable.

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

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