Quick Reaction Force of Navy Marines Tests Community Support Capabilities in Fire Drill in Katembe

The activity formed part of the final exercise of the 3rd QRF of Navy Marines regeneration phase and was designed to assess the force’s response capability in emergency situations and community support operations. Under the exercise scenario, the Marines were conducting a routine patrol when they encountered a fire at a school and immediately intervened. 

While the pupils were evacuating the buildings in an orderly manner and making their way safely to the designated assembly point, the QRF inspected the premises to ensure that no individuals remained at risk inside the school. 

EUMAM MOZ, 2026

During the operation, the Marines located a missing child and provided assistance to another child with simulated injuries, thereby practising search and rescue procedures as well as first aid in an emergency environment. 

The exercise tested the QRF’s coordination, decision-making and operational readiness in scenarios similar to those it may face in the future in the Northern Theatre of Operations in Cabo Delgado Province. 

At the end of the activity, light refreshments were distributed to all pupils who took part in the drill, and several footballs were donated to Lewi Pethrus Primary School in Katembe, a gesture that was met with enthusiasm and joy by both the children and the school community. 

The initiative also highlighted the importance of cooperation between the FADM and EUMAM MOZ in developing capabilities aimed at protecting and supporting local populations. 

EUMAM MOZ, 2026

EUMAM MOZ is a non-executive mission, with a mandate until December 2026, focused on the operational training and sustainment cycle. It provides advice, mentoring and specialised training to enable the FADM to become self-sustainable in responding to the insurgency in Cabo Delgado, in accordance with International Humanitarian Law, International Human Rights Law and the Women, Peace and Security Agenda.