Members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) on Wednesday gathered at the Grootfontein Military Base to celebrate the 31st anniversary of the country’s military.

A statement of President Hage Geingob, who is also the NDF Commander-in-Chief, was delivered on his behalf at the event where a variety of military vehicles, fighter jets, helicopters and personnel in special force training were displayed.

Geingob expressed his profound pride and satisfaction in the growth Namibia’s military force has gained over the past 31 years.

“I still call on you to continue fulfilling your primary mandate of safeguarding the territorial integrity, peace and the independence of the country with the little resources at your disposal,” he said.

Geingob reminded NDF to see to it that the State is protected from its enemies and to not harass its own civilians.

He then warned all soldiers serving in the force against indiscipline and unprofessionalism, saying soldiers are a reflection of any country and its values.

“I also call on the force itself to remain prepared, train its personnel for the modern world and improve the mentalities and physicalities of all soldiers,” he said.

Geingob used the same platform to again thank members of the defence force who have and are participating in the national crime prevention and anti-poaching efforts, as well as in distribution of the government’s drought relief assistance and in peacekeeping missions.

He further urged all military attachés based in foreign countries which have assisted Namibia in any way to continue enhancing and building the military relationships.

Several retired military generals and pioneers of Namibia’s armed force were present at the event.

Source: Namibia Press Agency