Mozanorte was reported a
series of concerns among military personnel serving under the natural gas
exploration project in Palma, as the region prepares for a high-level visit
from the capital. The military personnel allegation reported the following:
General
Context
TotalEnergies, the company responsible
for natural gas exploration in Afungi, Palma – Cabo Delgado, has also been
tasked with the logistical provision of food for the Mozambican Defense and
Security Forces (FDS) stationed in the area since the beginning of the armed
conflict in the province. The FDS are deployed under the Afungi Special
Operations Theater (TOEA), where they ensure the security of the installations
and personnel working at the site.
Current
Food Situation
For the past two months,
soldiers and police officers have faced serious food supply issues at their
operational positions. TSEBO, the company contracted by TotalEnergies to
provide meals, has failed to deliver both sufficient and quality food. The
meals provided are not enough for the entire personnel, and in some cases, the
food is spoiled or expired.
Comparison
with previous service providers
Previous service providers
such as True North and IFS, who also supplied food for the FDS, did not face
these types of problems. There have even been instances where meals were
returned due to poor quality or being unfit for consumption. Dissatisfaction among
the troops has become frequent and growing.
Unequal
Treatment between Forces
There is a clear disparity
in treatment between the Mozambican forces and the Rwandan forces stationed in
the same area. While Mozambican personnel receive poor quality meals, Rwandan
troops are given mineral water and enjoy better logistical support, both during
escort missions and at their accommodations.
Complaints
and Lack of Response
Complaints have been made
repeatedly by commanders of both the military and police forces to TSEBO, but
no solution has been presented so far. There are even reports that the rice
provided to Mozambican FDS lacks flavor and is unfit for consumption.
Working
Conditions of the FDS
Despite these challenges,
the FDS continue to conduct day and night patrols both inside and outside the
TotalEnergies facilities to ensure the security of all companies operating
within the Afungi complex. However, their efforts go unrecognized, and officers
are prohibited from raising their concerns during visits by senior military
officials or TotalEnergies representatives.
Loss
of benefits
Four years ago, agents from
the PRM (Republic of Mozambique Police) and the military used to receive
additional subsidies as recognition for their daily efforts. These benefits
have since been cancelled, further deepening the sense of neglect and
demoralization among the troops. (Mozanorte)
mozanorte@gmail.com
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