Online Reporter
Nyore Madzianike-Senior Reporter
ZIMBABWE National Army Chief of Staff Quartermaster Major-General Simo Maseko has called for greater co-operation among Sadc defence forces as the regional bloc moves to finalise a common logistics manual to support military and peace-support operations.
Maj-Gen Maseko made the remarks while officiating at the closing ceremony of the Sadc Logistics Working Group meeting of experts held in Harare from September 7 to yesterday.
Zimbabwe is the current chair of the Sadc Logistics Working Group Committee.
The meeting brought together defence experts from across the region to develop a common logistics manual aimed at establishing uniform procedures for supporting forces during operations.
The initiative builds on the existing Sadc Logistics Doctrine and seeks to provide member states with a common framework for determining the logistical requirements of various operations and military platforms.
“Logistics is the backbone of military operations,” said Maj-Gen Maseko.
“Without reliable supply chains, adequate transport, effective maintenance, functional medical support and continuous sustenance, even the best military plans cannot be successfully executed.
“A harmonised Sadc logistics manual will ensure that our deployed forces are adequately supported.
“There is, therefore, a need for co-operation and interoperability across all logistics functions so that our troops are fully sustained throughout any mission.”
Maj-Gen Maseko said, in this context, the work undertaken by the experts directly contributes to regional peace and security.
He added that the importance attached to the development of the Sadc logistics manual reflected its strategic value to the region.
“I urge all of us to prioritise the tasks ahead and come to future meetings with consolidated inputs so that we can expeditiously finalise the Sadc logistics manual,” he said.
He also underscored the importance of networking among member states.
“I wish to acknowledge the networking opportunities we had during the cocktail hosted by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces at the Museum of African Liberation.
“Such engagements are important in strengthening the relationships that underpin our collective Sadc objectives.
“As Chief of Staff, I am particularly impressed by the technical depth and professionalism displayed during your deliberations,” he said.
Maj-Gen Maseko encouraged delegates to remain committed to completing the manual.
“Throughout this week, we have demonstrated that we can achieve this goal. Let us maintain the momentum until the manual is finalised,” he said.
Sadc Logistics Working Group Committee chairperson Brigadier-General Benjamin Sabata said the meeting had laid a strong foundation for the production of the logistics manual.
“We engaged in various sessions and thematic group discussions, considering a wide range of factors, including emerging challenges such as climate change.
“We agreed that the manual must address these realities and adapt to evolving threats and operational requirements.
“You will realise that the military is increasingly involved in operations other than war, including disaster response during cyclones, floods and mudslides. The manual must, therefore, provide guidance for such missions as well,” he said.
Brig-Gen Sabata said he looked forward to further engagements next year when he hands over the chairmanship to another member state.
daniel chigunwe