Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Police’s Explosives Control Division has received a substantial upgrade to its operational capabilities, thanks to a N$22.4 million donation from the Ministry of Works and Transport.
The donation on Tuesday, which includes vehicles and specialised equipment, aims to enhance the division’s ability to respond effectively to incidents involving explosives.
During the handover ceremony, the donated items were put on display. These include six vehicles—four double-cab pickups and two minibuses—as well as twenty metal detectors.
Speaking at the event, Inspector General of the Namibian Police Force, Lieutenant General Joseph Shikongo said the new resources strengthen the division’s mobility, particularly in accessing remote and rugged areas where unexploded ordnance or remnants of war may still pose a threat.
Shikongo, expressed his gratitude to the Ministry of Works and Transport, reiterating the vital role such contributions play in ensuring public safety.
“These vehicles will provide crucial mobility support, enabling our teams to access remote and challenging terrains where unexploded ordnance and explosives remnants of war may be located. This will greatly enhance our operational efficiency and capacity to safeguard our communities,” he said.
Shikongo also praised the inter-ministerial collaboration underpinning the donation, calling it a testament to the shared responsibility of maintaining national peace and security.
“This partnership demonstrates the importance of working together across ministries to protect the lives and livelihoods of Namibians,” he added.
He said the donation is a timely improvement of the Explosives Control Division’s abilities.
“By equipping the unit with the tools needed it is now better able to address both immediate and long-term security challenges posed by explosives,” he said.
He added that the new equipment is expected to significantly improve the division’s readiness and effectiveness in responding to threats, thereby strengthening the country’s overall security framework.
