The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has called for a new and stronger military partnership with Namibia, describing the relationship between the two countries as one rooted in history, sacrifice and African solidarity.
Speaking during a bilateral engagement in Windhoek, DRC deputy prime minister and minister of national defence and veterans’ affairs Guy Kabombo Muadiamvita said the time has come to move beyond historical ties and build a structured, forward-looking defence alliance.
“This visit is not a simple diplomatic courtesy. It reflects a clear political vision to bring the defence forces of our two brother states closer together so that political trust translates into effective military cooperation,” he said.
Muadiamvita stressed that relations between Namibia and the DRC are not only diplomatic but are deeply shaped by history, African solidarity and fraternity forged in struggle. He recalled Namibia’s military support to the DRC during the 1998 conflict. He said: “The Congolese people have not forgotten this commitment, nor the ultimate sacrifices made by Namibian soldiers on Congolese soil”. He added that the solidarity between the two nations left a lasting impression, even inspiring a popular expression in Kinshasa. “Namibia and Congo are one people in times of hardship,” he said.
The DRC minister paid tribute to fallen Namibian soldiers, saying their sacrifices were made “for the freedom of the Congolese people and for all of Africa”.
Muadiamvita said the DRC wants to establish a genuine bilateral partnership built on trust, consultation and concrete cooperation. He outlined key areas for collaboration, including regular consultations, military training, capacity building, institutional development and experience sharing. “My ministry will be pleased to discuss several possible areas of cooperation, including training and capacity building, as well as sharing experiences on defence organisation,” he said.
Muadiamvita highlighted the ongoing security challenges in eastern DRC, describing them as a threat not only to his country but to the wider region.
“These threats have caused mass displacement, widespread human rights violations and violence against women and children,” he said. “We remain convinced that a lasting return to peace on Congolese territory will contribute not only to the security of our country, but also to the stability of our entire sub-region,” he stated.
Minister of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs Frans Kapofi echoed the call for stronger cooperation, stressing the broader importance of peace and stability in the DRC. “Stability in the DRC is not just a national concern. It is a regional and continental issue that affects Africa’s collective prosperity,” he said.
He noted that both countries are facing increasing global competition over natural resources. “Namibia and the DRC are not spared from the scramble for mineral resources. We must ensure that our resources benefit our people and strengthen our economies,” he said. Kapofi described the DRC as a strategic country with vast potential, particularly in energy and water resources.“The DRC is not only rich in minerals, but it is also a reservoir of water and energy for Central and Southern Africa,” he said.
Kapofi continued: “The Congo River has immense hydroelectric potential, capable of powering industries across the continent”. He expressed concern about ongoing instability in eastern DRC, calling for urgent action. “The loss of life, displacement of communities and disruption of livelihoods demand urgent resolution. Peace can only be achieved when parties come together in dialogue, but there must be a genuine desire from all sides,” Kapofi said.
He added that building trust is key to resolving conflict. “It is important that mechanisms are put in place to build trust and create a conducive environment for dialogue. Once that trust is built, everything else will follow,” he said.
Kapofi stressed that peace must be supported by strong defence systems.
“Peace is not sustained by dialogue alone. It requires a capable national and regional security architecture that can deter threats,” he said.
He called on the Southern African region to strengthen its collective defence capacity to ensure forces are trained, equipped and ready to defend peace and stability. Both ministers also highlighted the importance of supporting military veterans.
“As we strengthen defence cooperation, let us also exchange ideas on how best to honour and support those who served,” Kapofi said. Muadiamvita agreed, saying cooperation should also focus on improving the welfare and dignity of veterans in both countries.
-ljason@nepc.com.na