President and Commander-in-Chief (CIC) of the Namibian armed forces Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah commanded stronger discipline, modernisation and unity within the ranks of the military.
The CIC also underlined the role of the force as the country’s ultimate fallback in times of crisis.
She made these remarks during the 35th anniversary of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) at the Dimo Hamaambo Garrison in Grootfontein yesterday.
The event has been attended by retired generals and commanders who served in the NDF, Vice President Lucia Witbooi, Prime Minister Elijah Ngurare and other Cabinet ministers.
Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered his first NDF Day address as Commander-in-Chief, warning against behaviour that may undermine national security.
“Discipline, as the artery of the force, must be maintained to a measurable professional standard. As your Commander-in-Chief, I am making it clear that I do not want members under my command to put the country’s security at risk,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She further urged members of the NDF to remember their duties at all times.
She added that joining the military is not just a job but a lifetime commitment.
“You are all here after you have joined the force of your own free will. Having accepted to be members of the force, you have also accepted to forfeit some of your rights on behalf of the nation.
You are on duty twenty-four hours a day and throughout the year,” she told her troops.
Unity
Furthermore, the President said the NDF stands as a symbol of Namibia’s unity and reconciliation.
She recalled how former foes from the People’s Liberation Army of Namibia (Plan) and the South-West Africa Territorial Force (SWATF) were successfully integrated into one national army after independence.
“The NDF was born out of the Policy of National Reconciliation that was adopted at independence by our visionary leader, comrade [Founding President] Sam Nujoma. The successful implementation of this policy within the NDF epitomises the late founding president’s vision of a brighter, inclusive future for Namibia,” she said.
Modernisation
In a pointed directive, Nandi-Ndaitwah outlined six focus areas she wants the military to address urgently: discipline, welfare, training, technology, recruitment and fighting capability.
These, she said, are essential to ensure that the force remains relevant and effective in the 21st century.
“There is a need to ensure contemporary fighting capability for both the Army, the Air Force and the Navy. Digital learning and technology must be key factors aiming at keeping the force current in a fast-changing world,” Nandi-Ndaitwah said.
She also called for the rejuvenation of the force to close age and skill gaps and committed the government to improve the welfare of military personnel.
Footprint
Reflecting on the NDF’s peacekeeping missions, she said Namibia has earned respect globally. From Cambodia to Liberia and South Sudan to Côte d’Ivoire, the President noted that NDF troops have consistently represented Namibia with distinction.
“Our gallant soldiers have raised our national flag high and left their footprints. It is why Namibia is registered as one of the troop-contributing countries,” she said.
Shield
Nandi–Ndaitwah’s message repeatedly stressed the NDF’s dual role of protecting Namibia’s territorial integrity and standing ready to contribute to international peace and humanitarian missions.
“The NDF, particularly the Air Force, made our nation proud when they transported the mortal remains of our late beloved Founding President… giving our citizens a chance to bid him farewell,” she said.
Confidence
She also welcomed joint military exercises like the upcoming Exercise Tswaragano II between the NDF and the Botswana Defence Force, saying such collaborations build mutual trust and regional preparedness.
“Military-to-military interaction and cooperation between the NDF and sister defence forces in the region helps to build confidence and trust among SADC member states,” the President noted.
Foundation
President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed confidence in the NDF’s continued growth and professionalism. She recalled the early days of independence when some questioned the need for a full defence force at all, advocating instead for a paramilitary unit.
“Unity of purpose must always serve as a pillar that glues us together in defending our motherland. As members responsible for the defence of our motherland… You are obliged to always communicate through your established lines of command,” she said.
The Chief of Defence Force, Martin Kambulu Pinehas, said soldiers will honour Nandi-Ndaitwah exactly in the manner they were expected to during the inauguration event on 21 March.
During the same occasion, 40 national and NDF honours and medals were conferred by the Commander-in-Chief and the Defence Force Commander, respectively.
The event was officially marked by a 21-gun salute and the playing of the national anthem.
The colours of the day – red, white, navy blue and sky blue, along with military colours – reflected the pride and identity of the defence force as they celebrated their day.