The deployment of the Namibian Navy on the Zambezi, Chobe, and Kavango rivers has reduced security challenges such as illegal border crossings, unregulated fishing, poaching, and drug smuggling, among others. 

This was said by the Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Frans Kapofi, during the renaming of Naval Base Impalila to Naval Base Lieutenant General John Sinvula Mutwa.

The base, which was rehabilitated in 2017, aims to reduce crimes, enhance safety within the local community, foster a more secure environment, and strengthen cooperation between neighbouring countries.

The unveiling was attended by some senior government officials, the Subia community, the family members of the late Lieutenant General Mutwa, and members of the defence force.

"These security challenges have significantly decreased since the Navy's deployment and subsequent patrols. Collaborating with the Namibian Police Force, Impalila Conservancy Authority, the local community, and law enforcement from neighbouring countries, the navy successfully conducted individual and joint operations," said Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Frans Kapofi.

The base is renamed after the late Lieutenant General John Mutwa in honour of his unwavering dedication to the nation's defence and as a fitting tribute to all men and women in uniform who have dedicated their lives for the country.

The family thanked the Namibian Defence Force for the recognition.

The base was used by the South African Defence Force before independence and was later used as a secondary school for the Impalila community until 2014.

-
Photo Credits
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs

Category

Author
Lucy Nghifindaka