The agreement was signed in Maputo during the 16th session of the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security between the two countries. It has been endorsed as part of the Southern African Development Community's broader regional security plan.

The main objective of the agreement is to tackle transnational criminal activities, particularly human trafficking and drug smuggling, which have been exacerbated by economic hardship and poverty in the region.

A Step Forward Amid Rising Concerns

Local civil society organisations have described the accord as a significant development in regional security cooperation. They stressed that economic vulnerability makes individuals in both countries more susceptible to trafficking networks. The deal is viewed as a crucial move, but many underline the need for broader, multi-sectoral cooperation involving other member states of the regional bloc.

Implementation Challenges Remain

Despite the existence of anti-trafficking laws across Southern Africa, enforcement remains limited due to resource constraints. The new cooperation framework is expected to enhance the operational capacity of both countries' security forces and strengthen the legal tools already in place.