Niël Terblanché
The Namibian Defence Force (NDF) is set to conduct a comprehensive training exercise near Rehoboth, featuring loud explosions, gunshots, and the mobilization of military vehicles.
The exercise is scheduled from November 6th to November 8th, between 08:00 and 16:00.
Colonel Petrus Shilumbu, the head of the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs’ Public Relations Division, provided details about the upcoming training exercise.
According to Colonel Shilumbu, the exercise will involve soldiers and military vehicles, as well as the use of firearms and other weapons. He also mentioned that the noise from the training, including loud explosions, may be audible to residents in the vicinity of the training ground.
The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs has specifically notified the public in the Hardap Region, particularly those residing in the general area of Rehoboth, about the NDF’s training exercise. This exercise will involve the deployment of vehicles and personnel who will, at times, use blank ammunition for training purposes.
Colonel Shilumbu stressed that there is no cause for alarm regarding the movements of soldiers, military vehicles, or the sounds of gunshots, as these activities are part of a planned training exercise and do not pose any threat to the public.
He gave the assurance that every effort would be made to ensure that the normal day-to-day activities of the local population in the area are not disrupted and that no harm or damage will be caused to property.
“Residents in the vicinity of Rehoboth are encouraged to be aware of the scheduled training exercise from November 6th to November 8th and to take the necessary precautions during these hours,” he said.
The NDF aims to enhance its preparedness and capabilities through such exercises while ensuring the safety and well-being of the community.