Military personnel from various countries who are part of the Military Mission of the Southern African Community (SAMIM) were awarded medals on Saturday by the head of the mission, Mpho Molomo.

The public event, according to Notícias, took place at the Pemba Municipal Stadium, and was attended by the Chief of the General Staff, Joaquim Mangrasse, the Secretary of State in Cabo Delgado province, António Supeia, among others.

He said that the award represents recognition of the bravery of colleagues from all the countries that make up the Mission, including Mozambique.

On the other hand, Molomo stressed to the press that SAMIM will officially withdraw from the Northern Operational Theater on July 15 with a sense of "mission accomplished".

He said that a possible extension of SAMIM's stay would have to be based on political decisions. However, the complete withdrawal of troops could take longer given the existence of vast material to be removed.

SAMIM's aim was to re-establish security in the terrorist-hit districts of Muidumbe, Mueda, Macomia and Nangade.

As proof of the success, Molomo pointed to the gradual return of the population to the areas previously controlled by the terrorists.

"As you know, it's not just weapons that stop terrorism. It's more than that, but we've done our bit," he said.