Niël Terblanché
President Nangolo Mbumba has commended Namibia’s Defence Force (NDF) for its commitment to excellence in military training during the Graduation Parade of the 11th Regular Commissioning Course where 149 officer cadets received their presidential commission.
The ceremony on Wednesday celebrated the graduation of officer cadets from across Namibia who are set to join the Officer Corps as leaders and commanders.
President Mbumba stressed the significance of continuous training to ensure Namibia’s military readiness.
He quoted World War II General Douglas MacArthur, who observed, “In no other profession are the penalties for employing untrained personnel so appalling or so irrevocable as in the military.”
Reflecting on this, the president reiterated the necessity for ongoing investment in military education.
“The Namibia Defence Force must continue to prioritise training to guarantee military readiness, enabling our soldiers to carry out their missions with efficiency, effectiveness, and precision,” he said.
The Regular Commissioning Course is a rigorous entry point into the Officer Corps and is designed to produce combat-ready leaders with the skills, knowledge, and character necessary to guide the NDF in both peace and wartime.
President Mbumba highlighted the importance of this training by saying: “Becoming an officer is no mean feat. It must be earned and deserved. This course transforms and equips officer cadets with the necessary military skills and leadership abilities.”
This year’s cohort of Officer Cadets represents all 14 regions of Namibia, reflecting the NDF’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
“I commend the NDF leadership for ensuring that training and recruitment are conducted in an inclusive and diverse manner. By doing so, we provide opportunities for all Namibians who dream of serving in the armed forces to pursue their aspirations,” he said.
Addressing the graduating cadets, President Mbumba expressed confidence in their readiness to lead and serve the nation.
“I am confident that you are ready to serve the land of the brave with zeal and diligence. Go and defend and guarantee the security of the motherland. Go and make the NDF, your parents, your families, and the Namibian nation proud!” he urged.
Acknowledging the complex geopolitical environment and the global challenges of transnational crimes and terrorism, the president reaffirmed his belief in the capability of the NDF under its current leadership.
“Amidst these global challenges, I remain confident that the NDF will continue to produce professional soldiers capable of safeguarding Namibia’s sovereignty, peace, and security, as well as contributing to the stability of our region, Africa, and the world,” he said.
The ceremony at Osona Military Base was a demonstration of Namibia’s ongoing dedication to building a professional and capable defence force.
According to Mbumba it also demonstrates the nation’s broader aspirations for unity and inclusivity, encapsulated in the vision of “One Namibia, One Nation.”
