Cycle RECAMP V
Exercice Sawa 2006
Articles de Presse
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Excersise Thokgamo demonstrates SADC capacity
27 June, 2005
MAUN - President Festus Mogae says the successful completion of the international military exercise code-named Thokgamo demonstrates that the SADC region has both the capacity and resolve to provide its own security.
Mogae was officially closing the military exercise that had brought together 3 000 soldiers from 12 SADC countries and an assortment of military hardware including Armor Personnel carners, military jets and cannons.
The exercise, which lasted two weeks in Maun, was intended to build a united SADC brigade for peacekeeping purposes especially in the region and Africa.
President Mogae said this indicates that "we are prepared to also play a constructive part in the shaping of an enhanced international framework for global peace and security".
He said not long ago, the Southern Africa region was a focal point of armed conflict as "our people struggled to free themselves from the shackles of colonialism and apartheid, but today we are able to enjoy the fruits of sustained peace." Mogae added that the region has been transformed from being a location of international concern and political rivalry, into an example for others, of what can be achieved through reconciliation and common purpose.
"Today the nations of SADC are not only largely at peace but are also finding themselves increasingly engaged in international efforts to bring peace elsewhere" said the President.
He said Exercise Thokgamo, which is a Setswana word for tranquility has been a significant milestone along the road towards ensuring the security of not only the region but also the continent at large, adding that the joint maneuvers have laid the foundation for an effective SADC standby brigade.
Apart from being positioned to react to local threats, according to the President, the brigade will become a pillar of the all African Stand by Force which is being established by the African Union, to serve under the United Nations.
The exercise, said Mogae, is a practical manifestation of self-reliance and Pan African ideals as well as evidence of the potential for wider multi-lateral partnerships in meeting global security challenges.
Mogae thanked the French government for sponsoring the exercise through its re-enforcement of African Capabilities in Peacekeeping Programme (RECAMP).
