THE Zambia Air Force (ZAF) is hosting a crucial planning meeting for the Association of African Air Forces (AAAF) where the commander called for greater collaboration and humanitarian efforts to address the growing threat of climate-induced disasters on the continent.
Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni, ZAF Commander and current AAAF Chairperson, emphasised the need for African air forces to work together to provide aid and assistance to countries facing natural disasters.
He pointed to the severe drought currently affecting Zambia as an example of the challenges posed by climate change.
“We must assess and recommend on how we as African Air Chiefs can pull our resources to come to the aid of those in need,” Lt Gen Nyoni said.
“This engagement will not only improve the operational effectiveness of our Air Forces but also strengthen the bonds of solidarity among the nations.”
The meeting officially started yesterday in Lusaka bringing together representatives from United States Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) and Air Force Africa (AFafrica).
Participants discussed various topics, including the finalisation of non-commissioned officers’ guidelines and the establishment of women peace and security representatives.
AAAF Secretary General Col Kristin Cullinan expressed her satisfaction with the progress made by the association in recent years.
She highlighted the importance of collaboration among member nations to ensure the success of future initiatives, particularly in response to disasters.
Col Cullinan also commended AAAF for laying the foundation for integration of gender perspectives into Peace, Security and Airpower efforts in the past two years.
“There is a very common and often shared proverb that I am sure you all know: If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together. A wise man recently offered a new line to this proverb: if you want to go fast and far, build a tribe,” said Col Cullinan.
The meeting will be concluded on Friday with a closing ceremony attended by ZAF Chief of Operations Brigadier General Lloyd Chonya.
The next planning meeting will be held in Nigeria in February 2025.
By Buumba Mwitumwa
Kalemba September 17, 2024
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