“Zambia/Namibia Strengthen Legal Ties”
… Kabesha SC says the move will Foster Cooperation and Sharing Best Practices for Regional Progress
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 -(08-08-2024) – Zambia’s Attorney General, Mulilo D. Kabesha SC, has emphasized the critical importance of legal cooperation between Zambia and Namibia, underscoring the shared commitment of both nations to advancing their legal frameworks for regional and continental progress.
During a recent visit by Namibia’s Attorney General, Festus Mbandeka, and Prosecutor General to the Ministry of Justice in Zambia, Kabesha SC praised the deep historical ties between the two countries, which have been strengthened through various collaborative efforts.
He described the visit as “part of a broader benchmarking exercise aimed at evaluating and improving the effectiveness of the legal systems in both nations.”
Kabesha SC stressed that a robust legal system is essential for dispute resolution, maintaining order, and protecting individual rights.
“A strong legal system is the bedrock of any society. It not only resolves disputes but also maintains order and protects the rights of individuals,” he said.
He added that the visit provided “a valuable opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties and share knowledge that will enhance the legal systems of both Zambia and Namibia.”
Reflecting on recent exchanges, including a visit from Zambia’s Minister of Justice to Namibia, Kabesha SC highlighted the importance of these interactions in fostering mutual understanding and improvement.
He also recognized the media’s role in communicating these discussions, stating, “The media plays a crucial role in informing the public about these important collaborative efforts and raising awareness of the progress we are making together.”
Namibia’s Attorney General, Festus Mbandeka, echoed Kabesha SC sentiments about the strong historical connections between the nations, particularly noting Zambia’s pivotal support for Namibian liberation movements prior to Namibia’s independence.
“Zambia played a critical role in our struggle for independence, often at great personal and national cost,” Mbandeka remarked, acknowledging Zambia’s sacrifice, including facing aggression from the apartheid regime for harboring Namibian freedom fighters.
Mbandeka described his visit as a continuation of efforts to reinforce the bond established by the forefathers of both nations.
“This visit is part of our ongoing commitment to honor the legacy of our forefathers and build on the strong foundation they established,” he said.
He also expressed deep gratitude for Zambia’s support during Namibia’s mourning period following the death of its president, including gestures like naming streets after Namibian leaders.
“These gestures have deepened the bond between our nations and are a testament to our enduring friendship,” Mbandeka added.
The Namibian delegation’s visit focused on learning from Zambia’s well-established legal institutions, including the Office of the Attorney General, the Solicitor General, and the Director of Public Prosecutions.
Mbandeka emphasized that insights gained from Zambia’s legal framework and operational practices would be invaluable for enhancing Namibia’s own legal system.
“We have much to learn from Zambia’s legal institutions, and we are eager to implement the best practices we have observed here,” he noted.
While Mbandeka praised the structured program and hospitality received during the visit, he expressed regret over its brief duration.
“The time was limited, but the experience has been invaluable. We look forward to future opportunities for deeper collaboration between our two countries,” he concluded.