Namibia hails MDF role in formation of Sadc Standby Force

Visiting Namibia National Defence Force (NDF) commander Lieutenant General Epaphras Denga Ndaitwah has hailed MDF for playing a crucial role in the formation of the Sadc Standby Force.

General Ndaitwah said this on Monday during a dinner which Malawi Defence Force (MDF) Commander Henry Odillo hosted for his visiting counterpart.

“The professionalism of MDF was evident during the formation stages of the Sadc Standby Force, and then it was Sadc Standby Brigade. Officers from the MDF were responsible for putting structures of the Sadc Standby Force in place. It was not an easy task, but it was achieved,” said Ndaitwah who arrived in Malawi on Sunday.

The Namibian army commander also paid tribute to the late Colonel Daphlane Chikakuda of MDF whom he said was responsible for the formation of Namibian Army Brass Band.

“Colonel Chikakuda was solely responsible for the brass in our force. He was a very talented officer who it was pleasure to work with. That is one of the many ways that the NDF has benefited from the MDF. I am here to further cement the relationship between the two countries,” said Ndaitwah.

Odillo said MDF has always valued its relationship with the Namibian Force.

“Our officers have for many years attended military training in Namibia. We also have been hosting officers from NDF at Mafco for training. We share the same security concerns because we belong in the same region. The visit of General Ndaitwah will greatly enhance the network between the two defence forces,” said Odillo.

While in the country, Ndaitwah will tour the Malawi College of Armed Forces in Salima and the Ministry of Defence at Capital Hill, according to Odillo.