Sadc special forces military exercise begins in Kariba

The SADC special forces training programme code-named 'Exercise Mahombekombe' begun in Kariba on Tuesday and will run until the 26th of next month.

Eight regional member states' defence forces are taking part in the exercise which is part of SADC's efforts to sharpen the forces inter-operability and strengthen its rapid intervention capacity.

Officially launching Exercise Mahombekombe at Charara Estate in Kariba, Zimbabwe National Army Commander, Lieutenant General Philip Sibanda said the joint programme helps further promote prevailing peace and enhance cooperation among SADC member states.

He noted that the conduct of the exercise is in fulfillment of Article 13 of the African Union Protocol on Peace and Security which calls for the establishment of regional stand by forces to deal with destabilising situations.

About 900 troops from participating member states are taking part in the exercise which is focusing on combat survival, anti-hijack and anti-terrorism.