[allAfrica.com]  [http://www.csmonitor.com/2004/0921/p07s01-woaf.html?s=swAfrica]


NDF 'Up to the Challenge'

The Namibian (Windhoek)
NEWS
October 20, 2004
Posted to the web October 20, 2004
Windhoek
The Namibian Defence Force (NDF) has grown into a professional force capable of
repelling external threats "that intend to destabilise the country", says
President Sam Nujoma.
Nujoma made this statement at the fourth cadet commissioning parade held at the
Osona Military Base on Friday.
Thirty-one cadets were awarded certificates after completing a six-month
training course.
The President said that defence and security are becoming increasingly
challenging issues, which demand serious preparation to maintain a force
capable and ready to safeguard national interest, sovereignty and territorial
integrity.
"It is our Defence Force together with other law enforcement agencies that
halted the senseless attacks by Unita bandits on our citizens in the Ohangwena,
Kavango and Caprivi regions," he stressed.
As members of the NDF, he added, soldiers must be ready to participate in
peacekeeping missions abroad under the United Nations and African Union.
Nujoma also commended the Ministry of Defence for its achievements in improving
its operational and logistical capabilities.
He cited the Air Wing and the recent commissioning of the Namibian Navy as the
most significant achievements.
- Nampa

   

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