Zambia and Namibia Strengthen Cooperation on Defence and Security
The 26th Session of the Zambia–Namibia Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) on Defence and Security has officially opened at Sandy’s Creations Resort in Chilanga District, Lusaka Province, with calls for enhanced collaboration to address emerging security challenges.
Chairing the opening session, Mr Maambo Haamaundu, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Defence, urged Zambia and Namibia to work closely to combat transnational crimes, illegal immigration, extremism, terrorism, and other threats undermining peace and stability in the region.
Speaking during the official opening of the Senior Officials’ Meeting, Mr Haamaundu stressed the need for both nations to intensify efforts in tackling drug and human trafficking. He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to promoting peace and security through bilateral mechanisms such as the JPC.
He further highlighted the importance of using the platform to strengthen cooperation through exchange visits and information sharing, while commending Namibia for holding peaceful elections in 2024 and ensuring a smooth transfer of power in 2025 — a testament to the country’s deep democratic values.
Namibia’s Executive Director in the Ministry of Defence and Veterans’ Affairs, Ms Annely Haiphene, noted that the annual Joint Permanent Commissions have been instrumental in resolving issues amicably between the two nations. She emphasised that the peaceful democratic processes in Namibia reflect the strong governance principles shared by both countries.
The meeting is being attended by senior defence and security officials, including Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr Dickson Matembo; Zambia Air Force Commander, Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni; and Inspector General of Police, Mr Graphel Musamba.
The four-day session will culminate in a Ministerial Meeting on Thursday, to be officially opened by Zambia’s Minister of Defence, Mr Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, and his Namibian counterpart.
