Niël Terblanché
To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Brazil-Namibia Naval Cooperation, the Brazilian Navy’s frigate Defensora will dock at Walvis Bay from 22 to 26 October.
This historic visit not only commemorates three decades of a strong naval partnership but also offers a unique glimpse into Brazil’s maritime prowess, symbolized by the Defensora and its crew.
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs has informed the public that a ceremonial 21-gun salute will mark the frigate’s arrival, with gunfire expected between 08h00 and 09h00 today.
The ministry’s spokesperson, Colonel Petrus Shilumbu, assured residents that the explosive sounds, while loud, will be harmless as blank ammunition will be used.
Shilumbu said that the ritual is a centuries-old naval tradition that is intended to signify peaceful intentions as the vessel approaches a friendly harbour.
“This naval gesture, a centuries-old practice, symbolizes peace and friendship between nations,” he said.
The Defensora frigate will participate in a series of events during its stay in Walvis Bay, starting with a ceremonial salute to land upon docking, which will be answered by cannon fire from the Captain P.N. Sacharia Naval Base.
On 24 October, the public will have the opportunity to board and explore the frigate at Walvis Bay Port. From 1:00 to 5:00 pm, visitors, including school groups, will be able to view the vessel’s various features, such as its armaments and the onboard AH-11B “Super Lynx” helicopter.
This rare opportunity allows Namibians to witness modern naval technology firsthand.
An ecumenical service will be held at the Stella Maris Church in Walvis Bay to celebrate the enthronement of a statue of Our Lady of Aparecida, the Patroness of Brazil.
As a gesture of goodwill, the Brazilian naval delegation will donate the statue to the local Catholic parish, symbolizing the enduring cultural and religious ties between the Brazilian and Namibian communities.
The celebration will continue with the relaunch of a memorial landmark on 25 October, commemorating a hydrographic survey of Walvis Bay Harbour carried out by the Brazilian hydrographic vessel Sirius in 1997.
The project was a significant moment in the naval cooperation between the two nations and will be attended by various dignitaries.
On the same day, a formal reception will be held aboard the Defensora to honour the long-standing relationship between Namibia and Brazil and will be attended by government officials, military representatives, and members of the diplomatic corps.
As part of the celebration, a commemorative collection of Nampost stamps will be launched, symbolizing the 30-year naval partnership between the two countries.
The Brazilian frigate is not only a symbol of this historic occasion but also a technical marvel.
Equipped with surface-to-air and surface-to-surface missiles, a 4.5-inch cannon, and torpedoes with anti-submarine capabilities, the Defensora is designed for a wide range of naval operations.
The ship also features modern sensors and communication technologies, enabling it to track surface and air contacts.
Commanded by Gustavo Almeida Matos de Carvalho, the Defensora represents Brazil’s commitment to strengthening naval cooperation in Africa and promoting maritime peace in the South Atlantic.
The frigate’s visit to Walvis Bay this week comes after it participated in Operation IBSAMAR VIII, a naval exercise involving the navies of Brazil, South Africa, and India.
Upon leaving Namibia, the Defensora will return to its base in Rio de Janeiro.
