By Staff Report
WINDHOEK
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Brigade is to be launched on August 17 in Lusaka.
About 60 members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) and the Police (NAMPOL) are to form part of the inauguration parade.
The contingent left yesterday, and is expected to return to Namibia on August 20.
The SADC Brigade is to consist of three major components, namely: the military, the police and civilians.
Briefing the contingent on Thursday, NDF Chief of Staff Operations, Major-General Denga Ndaitwah, told members of the security forces to be proud of themselves as they have been chosen to represent the country.
He said they should behave as ambassadors.
“Go out there” he urged, “and light up the National flag of the Republic of Namibia.”
“Misbehaving will not be acceptable, but rather adhere to the orders of your commander, Captain Gabriel Shiyatukeni.”
He said peace could not be maintained in uniform without drawn structures; thus, the region has been working for years to put structures in place for proper, effective administration and management once the mission arises.
The General said the SADC Brigade to be formalized by the Head of State and Government this month was an example of such a structure and would include all members of the region.
“Namibia, as a country, has pledged a military company strength while the police have also made their own arrangement as part of that structure,” he said.