India strengthens defence ties with donation of network lab

OKAHANDJA, 23 MAR (NAMPA) – Namibia and India have reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relations with the inauguration of an advanced network laboratory at the School of Signals at the Osona Military Base, funded by the Indian government at a cost of N.dollars 1 million.
Speaking at the event here on Monday, India’s High Commissioner to Namibia, Rahul Shrivastava, said the facility reflects the enduring and time-tested friendship between the two countries and signals deepening cooperation in defence and technology.
Shrivastava linked the project to the July 2025 State Visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which engagements with President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah outlined a roadmap focused on modern technology and capacity building.
“This lab stands as a living example of that vision,” he said.
He noted that India has supported Namibia through training and technical assistance, including the deployment of military advisers under the ITEC programme since 2011, as well as ongoing cooperation with the Namibian Air Force and naval engagements. He said training has evolved to include cyber technologies, artificial intelligence and emerging systems to meet modern security demands.
Deputy Minister of Defence and Veterans Affairs, Charles Mubita, said the project is grounded in a long history of solidarity dating back to India’s support for Namibia’s liberation struggle.
He said India raised the question of Namibia at the United Nations as early as 1946 and later hosted Swapo’s first overseas office in 1986.
Mubita said the laboratory reflects India’s development approach, which prioritises building sustainable capacity.
“The Defence Diplomacy Fund does not create dependency. It builds capability,” he said.
He added that the facility will help equip the Namibian Defence Force with critical skills in secure communications and modern information systems.
Deputy Minister of International Relations and Trade, Jennely Matundu, said the two countries share a bond rooted in a common struggle for independence and strengthened through cooperation in peace, security and development.
She said India has supported Namibia across sectors including health, education and defence, with cooperation expanding into maritime and cybersecurity.
Matundu said the laboratory, equipped with computers, smartboards and projectors, will modernise training and strengthen digital learning.
She added that Namibia remains committed to strengthening cooperation with India for mutual prosperity.
(NAMPA)
EB/PS/AS