President’s Speech at the Closing Ceremony of Exercise //Khau //Ae
On 15 October 2025, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered a powerful speech at the closing ceremony of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) Counter-Terrorism Live Firing Exercise held at the Etiro Training Base in Karibib, Erongo region. The event marked a significant milestone for the NDF as it concluded its first-ever and most comprehensive counter-terrorism exercise, code-named Exercise //Khau //Ae.
The name //Khau //Ae, derived from the Damara-Nama language, translates to “Shield Together.” This name symbolizes the collective effort required to protect the nation against terrorism and other security threats. The exercise aimed to strengthen the government’s commitment to enacting relevant laws and establishing counter-terrorism institutions to deter, combat, and prevent potential threats.
Addressing the Evolving Threats
Terrorism, violent extremism, money laundering, and transnational organized crime are increasingly complex challenges that demand integrated planning, information sharing, and cross-cutting stakeholder involvement. President Nandi-Ndaitwah emphasized the importance of mobilizing resources at national, regional, and international levels to shield the country from these scourges.
She acknowledged the leadership of Minister Frans Kapofi and his team, who were instrumental in conceiving, planning, and executing the exercise. To the men and women in uniform and other participants from the security cluster, she expressed her pride in their performance, highlighting their professionalism, dedication, and cross-agency cooperation.
Strengthening National Security
Over the past seven weeks, the participants demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment to their duties. The government’s investment in this exercise was clear: to harness, strengthen, and build counter-terrorism preparedness and resilience in the country. President Nandi-Ndaitwah affirmed that the exercise achieved its goal.
She commended the synergy among the security cluster and supporting agencies, emphasizing the seamless integration of air, land, and intelligence assets. When the security forces work as a team, and the people are united with one heart and one mind, the security of the country is guaranteed.
Lessons from Regional Challenges
The geopolitical risks witnessed in neighboring countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique serve as a stark reminder of Namibia’s vulnerability. The president urged vigilance and warned against complacency, stating that the threat of terrorism is not far from the nation’s borders.
Exercise //Khau //Ae has enhanced the country’s ability to detect, deter, and respond to threats. She called for meticulous documentation of lessons learned and their immediate integration into the NDF’s standing operating procedures. The Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs must ensure that counter-terrorism training remains part of the NDF’s curriculum to preserve skills and competencies.
Investment in Infrastructure and Technology
To meet 21st-century challenges, the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs must prioritize modern infrastructure, including accommodation units, training areas, and firing ranges. Access to modern sporting and recreational facilities is also essential to maintain physical fitness and readiness.
Technological advancement is crucial in today’s world. President Nandi-Ndaitwah called for the acquisition of state-of-the-art military equipment to give the NDF a competitive edge on the battlefield.
Discipline and Professionalism
Discipline is vital for the profession of arms, just as knowledge is for medicine. The president emphasized the need to address cases of indiscipline promptly. She reminded the troops of their oath to serve the government and protect the Constitution, stressing that political activities by active service members are prohibited.
Some members have bypassed the chain of command to air grievances publicly, which is unacceptable and can threaten national security. The government is sensitive to the well-being of its citizens, including the defense force, but professionalism must be maintained.
Acknowledging Contributions
President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed gratitude to various officials and the local community of Erongo region for their support. She highlighted the importance of citizen cooperation as a pillar of national security.
As the exercise concluded, she encouraged all participants to continue safeguarding peace and stability, allowing the economy to grow, children to learn, and democracy to flourish. She praised the participants for their distinguished performance and assured them of her pride.
God bless the brave men and women of the security forces and the Republic of Namibia.
It is now her honor to declare Exercise //Khau //Ae officially closed. She thanked everyone for their contributions.
