Estonian officer embraces international role in Mozambique

Born on the island of Hiiumaa, on Estonia’s western coast, Priit maintains a close connection to his rural hometown. “Whenever possible, I like to go back — the fresh air and the waves of the sea are the calmest things to have to get your thoughts out of everyday routine,” he reflects. A running enthusiast, he enjoys staying active and grounded through physical activity. 

European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique, 2025

Rand began his career in the Estonian Armed Forces in 2002, serving as a Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) for over two decades before becoming a commissioned officer in 2025. Over the years, he has held key roles, including infantry instructor and, more recently, legal advisor — experience that prepared him for his current role in an international setting 

His deployment to Mozambique marks his first time in the country, and his impressions are positive. “Mozambique is a nice country to work in — the weather, nature and sun are like paradise. The local people are also nice,” he says. 

European Union Military Assistance Mission in Mozambique, 2025

Working in Mozambique has introduced new challenges to Second Lieutenant Rand. As LEGAD, Priit operates in an international and multilingual environment, often stepping outside his comfort zone, so he sees the mission as a valuable opportunity to grow professionally while contributing to a collective European effort. 

EUMAM MOZ is a non-executive mission, with a mandate until june of 2026, that supports the Mozambican Armed Defence Forces (FADM) in developing and strengthening capabilities. The aim is to improve the sustainability of Mozambique’s Rapid Reaction Forces, embedding them in a robust and autonomous operational cycle, in line with International Humanitarian Law and International Human Rights Law. 

The mission has more than 80 military personnel from 11 nationalities and it is commanded by portuguese Brigadier-General Luís Barroso.