08 Sep 2024

Military games between Botswana Defence Force (BDF) and Zimbabwe National Defence Force (ZNDF) serve as a vital platform to foster cooperation, build trust and strengthen strategic partnership between the two armed forces.

This was said by BDF Commander 2 Brigade group, Brigadier Kagiso Kgaswanyane when officially opening the military bilateral games in Francistown on Saturday.

Brig. Kgaswanyane said the games evidenced the growing bond between the two nations.

“The games are not meant for us to showcase our skills only but to also learn from each other,” he said.

He added that the two shared similar security concerns and threats and by working together, they would become stronger and more resilient.

“This kind of interaction is critical for building lasting relationships. The games allow the two armies to understand each other’s perspective, build trust, and foster a spirit of cooperation that goes beyond the battlefield. The benefits of these games go far beyond their immediate benefits,” he said.

Brig. Kgaswanyane said the games also demonstrated the commitment between Botswana and Zimbabwe regional security and stability.

“Regional security is a shared responsibility. By strengthening military ties, the two nations are sending a clear message of unity and preparedness to potential threats. This exchange of knowledge and forged friendship play a significant role in ensuring the safety and stability of the region for years to come,” he added.

He further said the games were more than just a competition but a demonstration of unity.

“Whether in joint exercises, regional peacekeeping missions, or collaborative training programmes, Botswana and Zimbabwe have consistently worked together to strengthen the collaborative defence capabilities,” he said.

Again, Brig. Kgaswanyane said the games symbolised the spirit of unity, showing that through sport, they built bridges, created friendship, and fostered understanding of their transcend borders.

“They are a symbol of the strong bond between the two nations, a bond shared in a history of commitment to regional peace and security,” he said.

He said both countries had stood by each other’s side in many instances, working to uphold the values of sovereignty, peace and solidarity.

Brig. Kgaswanyane said the two armies had also been instrumental in supporting peacekeeping missions and responding to crisis across the region.

“Whether through joint military exercises or coordinated responses to regional threats, we have demonstrated that collaboration between our armed forces is critical to maintaining peace. 

Our cooperation extends beyond military affairs into political, economic and cultural spheres, all contributing to the strong ties that bind us today,” he added.

For his part, ZNDF Commander Infantry Brigade Brigadier George Chitsva acknowledged the existing cordial relations between the two nations, which he said should continue to nature through bilateral meetings and games.

Brig. Chitsva reminded all the participants to maintain high standards of discipline and observe all rules and regulations of the games.

Meanwhile, the games included a variety of activities, testing the soldiers’ marksmanship, combat tactics, and filed craft.

Each challenge provided an opportunity for the soldiers to learn from each other’s expertise, exchange best practices and refine their skills. Beyond the tactical exercises, the games also established the spirit of friendship and mutual respect. Ends