Lusaka, Zambia – The Zambian Acting Minister of Defence, Hon Brenda Tambatamba, officially launched Exercise Blue Lugwasho on Monday, September 8, bringing together eight SADC Standing Aviation Committee (SADC SAC) member states for a regional humanitarian relief drill.
The exercise, aimed at strengthening cooperation and disaster response capabilities, saw participation from Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, Tanzania, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. Officials said the exercise builds on SADC’s legacy of regional stability and security, evolving from post-liberation economic cooperation to addressing modern challenges such as climate-related disasters.
Hon Tambatamba acknowledged the contributions of Zambian Defence Force personnel and praised Zambia’s role in supporting SADC operations since the liberation era. Zambian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni noted the exercise fosters unity, regional cooperation, and African self-reliance, reflecting principles promoted by leaders such as Kwame Nkrumah.
Brigadier General Molatlhegi Ntelamo, head of the SADC Secretariat planning team, thanked Zambia for its logistical and operational support, describing the country as a “beacon of hope and peace” for the region.
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