Zambia: The Zambia Air Force (ZAF) Commander, Lt Gen Oscar Msitu Nyoni has expressed gratitude to the President of the Republic of Zambia and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, Hakainde Hichilema for taking the lead and responding in a true pan African way by dedicating resources to the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM).
The remarks were contained in a speech read on his behalf by ZAF Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Tactical Air Mobility Command (TAMCOM), Brig Gen Alepher Phiri during a send-off parade of a ZAF Contingent on a rotational basis to Pemba Cabo Delgado Province.
The send off parade took place at ZAF Lusaka base on Friday, 29 December 2023, where it was stated that ZAF participation in SAMIM is a testament to the government’s commitment to regional stability and cooperation.
“The commitment of equipment and personnel to this mission underscores the great lengths the Government of the Republic of Zambia has gone to ensure that the SADC Mission in Mozambique is supported through the Zambia Air Force in order to promote stability in the region and the continent,” Lt Gen Nyoni said.
The Air Force Commander directed the troops to exercise high levels of discipline and integrity while in Mozambique, noting that operating in an international and multidimensional setup required discipline. He further called on the troops to be security conscious at all times.
Lt. Gen Nyoni also reminded the troops that the mission to Mozambique was not a solidarity endeavour but a collective effort, adding that the troops were expected to maintain combat readiness and esprit de corps throughout the tour of duty in the mission area.
The Zambia Air Force remains committed to serving the nation as well as helping restore peace and stability in the region, such as Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado, through collaboration efforts as well as logistical aircraft lift capabilities.