Katima mulilo: Minister of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security, Lucia Iipumbu, emphasized the need for vigilance in the Zambezi Region, which remains strategic and unique but continues to face threats from illicit cross-border crimes. Addressing a regional ministerial staff meeting at Katima Mulilo, Iipumbu urged staff members to facilitate lawful movement, support legitimate trade, promote tourism, and serve communities with professionalism.According to Namibia Press Agency, the minister is on a two-day working visit to the region, where she plans to inspect ongoing ministerial projects, conduct border visits, and participate in potential police operations. She emphasized the responsibility of staff to protect the Republic's borders, uphold the law, detect irregularities, prevent crime, and maintain internal security. Iipumbu highlighted the importance of securing the Republic, protecting communities, and ensuring citizens' identities and dignity.Iipumbu also urged staff to maintain profession alism and apply the law consistently, despite challenges such as long distances, remote communities, and difficult access during rainy seasons. She acknowledged the operational difficulties but insisted they should not excuse poor service delivery or indiscipline.The minister pointed out that stock theft is a significant issue in the region, affecting households' income, food security, and farming capacity. She called for strengthened cooperation among stakeholders to address stock theft and other crimes, including housebreaking, gender-based violence, smuggling, and illegal crossings.Iipumbu further emphasized the need to protect the region's natural beauty as part of the country's national wealth. She reminded staff of the existing operational pressures and the importance of avoiding internal disorder, underscoring the expectation for ministerial staff to be present, disciplined, responsive, and fair.