‘ZDF the best in Africa’

Mthokozisi Dube Chronicle Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces has the best peace keeping mission strategy in Africa and has the capacity to offer training that can strengthen the continent’s military contingents.

Speaking at a graduation ceremony of 137 soldiers at the School of Signals at Imbizo Barracks, Colonel Paulus Mupandeki of the Namibian Defence forces said owing to Zimbabwe’s military prowess, Namibia will continue attending ZNA courses.

According to Col Mupandeki, Zimbabwe commands great respect in military and defence circles, the main reason why Namibians are interested in attaining skills locally. Col Mupandeki who was the best student in the Operator class II said ZDF is one of the best armies in Africa. “The Zimbabwe Defence Forces is touted as one of the best in peacekeeping missions in Africa and in a bid to maintain our regional security we [members of the Namibian Defence Forces] saw it fit that we attend ZNA courses,” said Col Mupandeki.

Col Mupandeki expressed gratitude on the hospitality they received and the cordial relations between ZDF and the Namibian Defence Forces.

“As SADC member states we’re supposed to equip each other on matters to do with security hence we’re going to send another contingent to attend ZNA courses,’ said Col Mupandeki.

A total of 137 graduates passed with flying colours in six courses that include the regimental signals officers’ course, the operator radio and line group and the radio communication technicians’ group ‘T’ class III course.

Meanwhile, the guest of honour Brigadier-General Morgan Manawa, Commander Artillery Brigade urged Namibian Defence Forces members to display and use the newly acquired knowledge for the benefit of their country.

“I urge members of the Namibian Defence forces who’re amongst the graduands to go and serve their country with diligence and at the same time portray a true reflection of our country,” said Brig-Gen Munawa.

He also took the opportunity to invite Namibians for advanced courses offered by the School of Signals. He challenged the graduating officers to effectively command any signals platoon and to support operational plans in diverse tactical scenarios.