Southern African Development Community Defence Inspectorate Working Group Conference officially draws to a close Article and photos by Sea T. Sehoole

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Defence Inspectorate Working Group (DIWG) Conference started on Monday 16 August and officially ended on Friday 20 August 2010.

After the official welcoming function at the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town on the evening of 16 August, three long days of deliberation, discussion and planning took place from the 16^th to 18^th. The group then took the opportunity on the 19th to view the breathtaking city of Cape Town. Scheduled was a trip to Robben Island, made possible by the South African Airforce. AFB Ysterplaat provided not only a helicopter but professional staff as well, which ensured a safe trip to and from the mainland.

A group photo taken while sailing

At the end of the tour the group was taken on a visit to various townships starting with Langa, Nyanga and Khayalitsha, ending in a visit to the acclaimed butchery and eatery; Mzoli’s Place.

The IG’s (Inspectors General) used the opportunity to get to know one another on a social level, experience the local culture and food, as well as interact with the South African people.

C Navy greeting each delegate individually at the official closing function	An officer taking one of the groups on a tour of the ship

The last day of the Conference started bright and early onboard the SAS MENDI with a welcome and safety briefing by the ship’s Officer Commanding, Capt B. Mhlana. This was followed by a welcoming reception in the hanger after which the OC handed over to Cdr G. Walker, the Executive Officer.

Cdr Walker briefed the delegates on the history and capabilities of the valour class frigates and the composition of the ship’s company. The group was impressed to hear that the ships had the world’s first use of laser welding technology for warships, as well as other combat capabilities.

A member asking a question during the security briefing at AFB Ysterplaat	A General supports a local charity shop in Khayelitsha
Briefing at IMT by Mr J. Minaar	Briefing by Capt B. Mlhana

The delegates were then split into groups while various technical and combat officers lead them on tours of the ship. The tours took place simultaneously with a trip of about two hours on the SAS MENDI, where the ship sailed around the bay and back.

Each of the delegates then received gifts from SAS MENDI on behalf of the South African Navy. The briefing about the Frigates was an eye-opener and led the group to value the importance of the Navy while the opportunity to sail was an unforgettable experience for the IGs, most of whom were Army Generals.

The SA Navy once again proved itself to be a professional force that was at the forefront of maritime offensive and defensive action in the region.

Delegates board the SAAF helicopter	Delegates listen to a tour guide, and former prisoner, on Robben Island

At the closing reception on Friday evening, Gen Sambalanga, the outgoing chairman of SADC DIWG, announced the dates of the third conference, which will be taking place in Harare from 29 August until 3 September 2010. All issues left pending from this conference will be brought to a close, and the handing over of the chairperson will take place.

He thanked the South African military authorities for organising this conference, and Maj Gen M.E Petane and his staff were singled out for their dedication and commitment. The sponsors were once again thanked as was everyone directly and indirectly involved in the conference. The SA Navy in particular was thanked for the opportunity to sail and IMT also immerged as a highlight, and he referred to it as an amazing institute. He shared that all the IGs had understood and agreed on implementation and use of the IG manual, and it had been a fruitful and productive stay in South Africa.

The guest of honour during the closing reception was Chief of the South African Navy, V Adm J.R Mudimu, representing the Minister of Defence (MOD) and Chief of the SANDF. He conveyed that both MOD and C SANDF were following the events of the conference very closely as it was an important structure aimed at strengthening SADC. He emphasised the importance of Inspector Generals and the weighty responsibility they carry to inculcate accountability and responsibility that would result in improved integration and interoprerablitliy. C Navy referred to Inspectors at the lighthouses of SADC; “…there is no higher calling” he commented, “and only through collective effort can we attain our goals, conferences such as these ensure our unity”. He stressed the importance of transforming productive discussions into constructive concrete actions.

He ended saying “Africa needs all of us, we must not fail our beautiful continent”.