IPC wants more mental health support for soldiers

Patience Makwele The deaths of two members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) at military bases in Otjiwarongo and Otavi have renewed calls for stronger mental health support, better housing and improved welfare programmes for soldiers. Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) on Monday urged the Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs to strengthen support systems for military personnel. The party said the well-being of soldiers deserves the same attention as military readiness and infrastructure.

IPC shadow minister of defence and veterans’ affairs Alosius Kangulu extended condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of the deceased while calling for a greater focus on soldier welfare. He stressed that investigations into the two deaths should be allowed to continue. “These heartbreaking incidents serve as a painful reminder that beyond the uniform are human beings who face immense emotional, psychological and social challenges,”

Kangulu said. According to Kangulu, military personnel often spend long periods away from their families and support networks while serving in different parts of the country. He said such circumstances can place pressure on their emotional wellbeing and contribute to loneliness, anxiety, depression and emotional distress.