Twenty members of the police force are undergoing a two-week training on basic safety and operating an under-25-tonne skipper.

The course held at Katima Mulilo is aimed at equipping the officers with the skills to operate in waterways.

The course is facilitated by the Namibian Maritime and Fisheries Institute.

The NamPol Regional Commander for Zambezi, Commissioner Andreas Shilelo, stated that the training is expected to impart valuable knowledge to the trainees in vessel operation, navigation, and safety protocols, as well as address current challenges experienced.

"Most of the challenges that will be addressed, especially for our region, is how to deal with the boats when the boat is having minor mechanical problems. It's about plotting the location during the departure. If they want to make a plan to make a driving plan in a specific area, especially if they are coming from Katima to Impalila, they will know how they can log in in terms of using navigation equipment to know where they are and where they are going and to estimate the time plus the speed that."

Commissioner Shilelo indicated that NamPol procured a new boat to boost Nampol's operations, especially on the Zambezi River.

The course, which runs until the first of November, is expected to enhance the trainee officers' ability to patrol rivers and protect Namibian borders while ensuring the safety of those lawfully using the country's waterways.

They will also be better prepared to prevent illegal activities and respond swiftly to emergencies.

The trainees are from regions with waterways, especially those most prone to floods.