Mozambican authorities say close to ninety Islamist militants alongside their hostages have surrendered to the government over the past two months in Mocimboa da Praia in Cabo Delgado province.

The province has grappled with a brutal jihadist insurgency that has created a massive humanitarian crisis in northern Mozambique.

President Filipe Nyusi in September announced a pardon for all surrendering jihadists during a tour to the province.

Local administrator Sérgio Cipriano said the militants were well received and the process of reconciliation and reintegration was underway.