INS Sunayna, a key asset of the Indian Ocean Ship SAGAR mission, has arrived at Nacala Port in Mozambique as part of India’s ongoing efforts to enhance maritime collaboration in the region. The ship’s arrival on April 17 follows its participation in the inaugural session of the India-Africa maritime partnership exercise, AIKEYME 25, conducted in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania.
The SAGAR initiative, which stands for Security and Growth for All in the Region, exemplifies India’s commitment to fostering international maritime cooperation with African nations. Reflecting this vision, INS Sunayna embarked on its mission from Karwar on April 5 under the flag-off ceremony led by the Defence Minister. Onboard were 44 naval personnel from nine friendly foreign nations, including representatives from Comoros, Kenya, Mozambique, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, and South Africa.
Upon reaching Nacala, the ship received a warm welcome from Mozambique naval officials, led by Commander Nelson H. Mabjaia, Chief of Commission. The event featured the Mozambique Naval Band, symbolizing the goodwill and partnership between the two nations.
During its port stay, INS Sunayna will engage in a range of collaborative activities designed to build operational synergy and capacity within the Mozambique Navy. These initiatives include joint training exercises focusing on Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) drills, as well as firefighting and damage control procedures. Additionally, the ship’s crew will conduct various community engagement programs, such as a yoga session to promote wellness, ship visits for the Indian diaspora and local schoolchildren, and an interschool quiz competition emphasizing maritime awareness and regional history.
The port visit will also feature a guided tour for cadets from the Nampula Military Academy, providing them with an inside look at naval operations. In a celebration of maritime friendship, INS Sunayna will host a deck reception for local officials and dignitaries, further cementing ties between India and Mozambique.
Following its visit, INS Sunayna will embark personnel from the Mozambique Navy as sea riders for a joint surveillance mission within Mozambique’s Exclusive Economic Zone. This mission underscores the shared commitment to maritime security and addressing non-traditional threats in the Indian Ocean Region.
The arrival of INS Sunayna at Nacala marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relationship between India and Mozambique. It highlights India’s enduring dedication to strengthening maritime cooperation, fostering mutual trust, and promoting regional security under the SAGAR initiative.
