13/09/2026
BDF, NDF CLOSE TSHWARAGANO III WITH RENEWED COMMITMENT TO JOINT SECURITY
The Botswana Defence Force (BDF) and the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) yesterday brought Exercise Tshwaragano III to a close in Lobatse, marking the end of two weeks of joint training aimed at strengthening military cooperation, interoperability and regional security. The closing ceremony marked the culmination of the bilateral exercise, which brought together personnel from the two neighbouring countries under the theme “Enhancing Joint Cooperation”.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Her Excellency Elizabeth Naukongo Kakukuru, the High Commissioner of the Republic of Namibia to the Republic of Botswana, described Tshwaragano III as a practical demonstration of the strong relationship between the two neighbouring countries. “Tshwaragano III is a practical demonstration of the strong and enduring bonds of friendship, solidarity, and long-standing, deep-rooted cooperation between Botswana and Namibia. ”She noted that the relationship between the two countries extends beyond their common border, highlighting their shared history, languages, culture and commitment to peace, security, stability, democracy and development. She added that the capabilities developed through the exercise would help both countries address emerging security threats while supporting peace and stability in the region.
The exercise series itself dates back to 2012, when Botswana and Namibia identified the need for closer cooperation in addressing common security threats, including poaching, drug trafficking, illegal border crossings and other transnational challenges. Tshwaragano III was conducted as a Command Post Exercise (CPX) for the first time. The exercise followed an extensive planning process involving three conferences held between May and July 2026.
The exercise extended beyond military activities through Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) initiatives, including Quick Impact Projects and cultural exchanges. Director General, Support Services Major General Molefi Seikano handed over Quick Impact Projects to the leadership of Lobatse town as part of Exercise Tshwaragano III. The projects included 15 chairs, 21 adjustable tables, 4 bunk beds and mattresses for Bothakga Primary School, and a bus shelter at Athlone Hospital for commuters. Maj General Seikano mentioned that these projects reflect the collective efforts of the Botswana Defence Force, the Namibia Defence Force and the members of Lobatse community. These activities allowed the participating defence forces to interact with local communities and stakeholders in Lobatse, strengthening mutual understanding and demonstrating the military's commitment to supporting communities where they operate.
The closing of the exercise therefore marked more than the end of a military training programme. It reaffirmed the commitment of Botswana and Namibia to unity, solidarity and cooperation in the pursuit of regional peace and security. For the participating soldiers, the exercise provided an opportunity to put their training into practice while learning from their counterparts across the border.
