06 Jul 2015

Botswana Defence Force (BDF) 2 Infantry Brigade commander, Brigadier Benjamin Masunga has said bilateral games are vital as they accord the commanding officers and staff of the armies in different countries time to discuss matters of operational interest.



Speaking at a dinner hosted by the BDF in honour of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) after the bilateral games in Francistown on July 3, Brigadier Masunga said the games most importantly gave the commanders of the two brigades an opportunity to strengthen and intensify bilateral cooperation in dealing with crime.



“They intensify bilateral cooperation in dealing with transnational organized crimes such as smuggling of goods, livestock rustling, human trafficking, drug trafficking and poaching,” said Brigadier Masunga. 



He said there was also need for the countries to continue the fight against Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) along the border as it has a negative impact on the economies of the two countries and will subsequently affect the food security in the region if not properly dealt with.



The Commander of the ZNA 1 infantry Brigade, Colonel Mpolaeng Siziba said the harmonious relationship between the countries dates back to the colonial rule when Botswana warmly welcomed thousands of Zimbabwe refugees.



Colonel Siziba said even after independence of the two countries, they continued to work together and share invaluable information that can ensure reduction in cross border crime.


Earlier the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Culture Coordinator in the north, Ms Minkie Bokole noted that the games help cement the good relationship between Botswana and Zimbabwe.


She said the bilateral games also energise the Francistown district for the Botswana Games slated for December.

 
Ends