148 NDF soldiers graduate

In a message for those intending to cause conflict, President Nangolo Mbumba said Namibia’s peace is ‘priceless’ and must be protected at all costs because it was earned through the ultimate sacrifice.He made the remarks at a Namibia Defence Force (NDF) graduation ceremony last Thursday, where 148 first cadet officers were commissioned to second lieutenant. The graduating officers, from the 261 Motorised Infantry Battalion in Rundu, completed their intensive 18-month regular commissioning course (RCC) training in command, leadership, resource management and conventional and non-conventional warfare modules.

During his keynote address, Mbumba lauded the veterans of the liberation struggle. “These brave men and women, who were the founding officers of the NDF, are the ultimate exemplars of courage, determination and patriotism. I, therefore, encourage our young officers to emulate these gallant sons and daughters of our soil by displaying utmost loyalty and commitment to your commanding officers, the NDF and Namibia as a whole,” he said.

“This is indeed a proud moment to witness the graduation of first officer cadets who were recruited directly upon completion of their secondary education. This is a first for the NDF and it serves as a sign that in Namibia, we are keen to continue developing the quality of our men and women in uniform so that they are on par with other defence forces in the region and further afield,” the president noted.

He added that it is a “significant development” that buttresses the country’s efforts to build a modern and well-equipped defence force.

No mean feat

“I am keenly aware that becoming an officer in the military is no mean feat. It is a challenging undertaking which requires outstanding mental and intellectual fortitude and physical aptitude. In other words, it must be earned and deserved. You deserve what you are achieving today,” Mbumba told the graduating soldiers.

“An officer has to be worthy to enter the profession that dedicates itself to defending Namibia and its people. Therefore, those of you graduating today have established yourselves as outstanding officers and commendable patriots,” he added.

The head of state further reminded the graduates that they are expected to exemplify the commitment, patriotism and discipline which defines the ethos of NDF. “You are expected to maintain order, discipline and obedience among your ranks. You are expected to display prompt and willing responsiveness to the demands placed upon you and your peers. Indeed, always remember that you are the servants of the Namibian people and that it is a great honour to serve those people, regardless of political affiliation, region, religion, gender and creed.”

Protect the peace

Mbumba further urged the graduates to protect and preserve Namibia’s hard-won freedom and peace, especially this year, with national elections set for November.

“There are a few elements who may try and seize the moment of political campaigning to sow the seeds of division by fomenting violence and civil unrest. Others may try to seize the cover of election campaigns to engage in nefarious and criminal activities. For that reason, together with the Namibian Police, be on high alert to enforce peace, stability and order,” he said.

“You must swiftly and without hesitation remind those who harbour these divisive ideologies that they have no place in the Namibian House. Let us remind those who think they can disturb the Namibian people that our peace is here to stay. Therefore, our peace must be protected with utmost vigilance and unwavering commitment against any external and internal threats.”

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