The Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Frans Kapofi, is satisfied with the achievement of Exercise Hanganee 2 in fostering interactions and cultural practises among Namibian and Botswana defence forces.

The forces rendered humanitarian assistance in various parts of the Omaheke Region.

Kapofi made the remark at the closing ceremony of Operation Hanganee 2 at Tsjaka settlement in the Kalahari Constituency, which started from the 15th to the 30th of June.

The Namibian Defence Minister says that the exercise provided an opportunity to deepen the country's bilateral relations.

Kapofi also added that the operation will strengthen military-to-military cooperation.

"Apart from issues related to military relations, this exercise contributed immensely to the wellbeing of the community through outreach programmes such as provisional health services, basic necessities, and cleaning campaigns, to mention but a few. It is now my single honour and privilege to declare Exercise Hanganee 2 officially closed."

Exercise Co-Director, Brigadier Anderson Matlho of the Botswana Defence Force, acknowledged the commitment and dedication shown by officers of both countries during the exercise.

"If I didn't recognise and appreciate the hard work demonstrated by exercise planners to put this exercise together, it is always not easy to achieve maximum desirable results from people coming from different backgrounds, but we maintain the same spirit and work ethic as we came to conclude this exercise."

The army forces also assisted with the renovation of and setting up of a playground at Mphe Tuto Primary School in Tsjaka.