Luanda - Military forces belonging to the stand-by brigade of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are conducting a six-day joint military exercise, dubbed "Golfinho", phase I "MAPEX".
The week-long exercise, which started on Sunday, is being held under SADC guidelines and will bring together staff of the armed forces and police from the respective member states of the regional community.
It is taking place at the Angolan Special Forces Centre in Cabo Ledo in northern Bengo province.
According to the programme, the opening ceremony was marked by the hoisting of flags of SADC member countries, followed by the gathering of troops on parade.
It proceeded with the reception of officials to the event, singing of anthems of the SADC and of the Republic of Angola, welcoming messages and a short presentation on aspects of the tactical exercise.
The task of the stand-by brigade consists of observing and controlling, support to peace, intervention in a member state in order to restore peace and security, prevention of disputes or conflicts in any manner, thereby preventing it from worsening or spreading to neighbouring states or areas, provision of humanitarian assistance, post-conflict disarmament and demobilisation.
In carrying out their duties, whenever necessary, they are called to co-operate with the United Nations and its agencies, as well as with other international and regional organisations or local authorities.
Based in their respective countries, the personnel belonging to the stand-by brigade should only move when requested for any action or mission of peace.
The SADC comprises Angola, South Africa, Botswana, Mauritius, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Madagascar, Namibia, DRC, Congo, Swaziland, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
