Police, soldiers receive debushing and demining equipment

The police, the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) and the Directorate of Forestry on Thursday received equipment for debushing and demining along the Namibia-Zambia borderline at Kamenga.

The items, valued at N$257 000 and pledged by the Namibia Nature Foundation, include freezers, chainsaws and protective gear to be used by officers to curb illegal timber harvesting, wildlife poaching and the threat of forest fires that undermine conservation efforts by the environment ministry.

“By equipping our teams with these essential tools, we are taking concrete steps to combat these challenges. The chainsaw will enhance our ability to manage and create safe pathways for demining activities while the protective gear ensures the safety of our personnel in the field,” said Teodor Kaambu, the chief forester in the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism.

Police inspector general Joseph Shikongo expressed his appreciation, saying the debushing and demining are critical in safeguarding the integrity of the border area and preventing potential hazards, while facilitating the safer movement of communities and the law-enforcement officers.

“Thick bush encroachment and the presence of unexploded ordinances pose significant challenges, not only to security, but also conservation efforts and sustainable land use,” he said.

Additionally, he said landmine contamination remains a serious concern in some parts of Namibia, especially in border areas with a history of military activities.

“Nampol through its specialised units continue to work tirelessly to identify, clear and neutralise such threats. The support we receive today will contribute immensely to our ongoing efforts to rid our land of these dangers and secure a safe environment for all,” he noted.

Shikongo urged everyone to work as a team and ensure that there is peace, security and environmental protection for the well-being of the nation.

Speaking at the same occasion, lieutenant colonel Julius Kangwiya of the NDF echoed similar sentiments.