INS Sunayna Arrives at Mozambique’s Nacala Port, Strengthening India-Africa Maritime Ties

Nacala, Mozambique: As part of India’s expanding maritime collaboration with Africa under the SAGAR initiative, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayna arrived at the Port of Nacala in Mozambique on Wednesday. The visit marks a major milestone in the Indian Navy’s ongoing deployment to Africa under the Indian Ocean Ship (IOS) SAGAR mission, a regional initiative focused on Security and Growth for All in the Region.

Prior to her arrival in Mozambique, INS Sunayna had participated in the inaugural edition of the India-Africa maritime partnership exercise AIKEYME 25, held at Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania. The ship’s journey, which began from Karwar on April 5, was flagged off by the Hon’ble Raksha Mantri. Onboard are 44 naval personnel from nine friendly foreign nations, including Comoros, Kenya, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa—highlighting the spirit of international cooperation that defines this mission.

Upon entering the port, the vessel received a warm welcome from Commander Nelson H. Mabjaia, Chief of Commission, accompanied by a ceremonial reception from the Mozambique Naval Band.

During its stay in Nacala, INS Sunayna will host a variety of collaborative activities with the Mozambique Navy, aimed at enhancing interoperability and fostering stronger defence ties. The joint agenda includes training sessions in Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) techniques, as well as firefighting and damage control drills. A formal deck reception will also be held onboard to honor local dignitaries and promote maritime camaraderie.

The visit goes beyond military engagements, extending into the community with several outreach initiatives. The ship’s crew will conduct a yoga session to promote wellness, host ship visits for local students and the Indian diaspora, and organize an interschool quiz competition focusing on maritime history and awareness. Additionally, cadets from the Nampula Military Academy will be given a guided tour of the ship to deepen their understanding of naval operations and maritime cooperation.

As a key highlight of the visit, INS Sunayna will embark personnel from the Mozambique Navy for a joint surveillance mission in the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The operation reflects a shared commitment to ensuring regional maritime security and tackling non-traditional threats in the Indian Ocean.

The port call at Nacala not only strengthens naval cooperation between India and Mozambique but also reinforces New Delhi’s broader commitment to deepening partnerships across the African continent. Under the aegis of the SAGAR initiative, India continues to play an active role in promoting peace, security, and sustainable development in the Indian Ocean Region.