Namibia and Botswana today launched a joint civil-military cooperation plan aimed at sensitising communities living along the common border about the importance of peaceful coexistence and good neighbourliness.
The launch took place in Kasane, Botswana.
The first four-day sensitization campaign will take place in July and will focus on illegal border crossings, illegal fishing, poaching, and the smuggling of arms and ammunition. The second campaign, which will focus on human-wildlife conflict, is scheduled for August.
The campaign targets 21 villages in Botswana and 19 in Namibia.
The Defence Minister, Frans Kapofi, described the campaign as an important milestone.
"Batswana and Namibians have had their differences too, sometimes resulting in the loss of lives. The good thing that has always happened, admitting those differences, is that our two governments have always sought peaceful resolutions, including seeking legal resources. Our differences have always revolved around activities taking place along the border line that are not identifiable at some points."
The two countries adopted the African Union (AU) border management programme, which seeks to promote joint governance to prevent conflict and promote peace, security, and stability, through a boundary treaty signed by the two countries in 2018.
Illegal fishing and border crossings, housebreaking, cattle theft, and poaching have been challenges for both countries to combat.
"It is, however, disheartening that those crimes are being perpetrated by foreign nationals who sometimes take advantage of our people's hospitality to commit such crimes."
Thomas Mmusi is Botswana's Defence and Security Minister.
"The success of these civic activities hinges on the unwavering commitment and collaboration of all stakeholders involved. Our defence forces, civilian agencies, local authorities, and the communities themselves must work hand in hand, guided by a shared vision of progress and harmony."
The campaigns, which will include routine patrols, are expected to foster cooperation and trust between the military forces.
The second launch of the civil-military cooperation plan will take place in Katima Mulilo on Thursday.