Botswana, Namibia partner to fight cross border crime :: Mmegi Online

KASANE: In their infinite mission to curb cross border crime, Botswana, through Botswana Defence Force (BDF) and Namibia Defence Force (NDF) have joined forces to tackle cross border crime that remains a concern. The two states on Tuesday here launched a joint Civil Military Cooperation (CIMIC) implementation plan between the BDF and the NDF. Its primary components will cover vital sensitisation campaigns on illegal border crossing, illegal fishing, poaching and illegal smuggling of arms and ammunitions which will run from July 9-12 2024.

Officiating at the launch, the Minister of Defence and Security, Kagiso Mmusi, revealed that the launch of CIMIC activities precedes a series of campaigns that will target 21 villages along the common border on the Botswana side and 19 villages on the Namibian side.

“This initiative reflects our shared vision and dedication to improving the lives of our citizens. These activities are designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by our border communities, ensuring that our defence forces are not only guardians of our nations but also play a vital contributor to human development and peaceful coexistence. The two nations share more than just a border, they share a history, a culture, and a future intertwined by the aspirations and dreams of our people,” he said.