The Namibian Defence Force is mourning the loss of two soldiers who allegedly took their lives in separate incidents on Thursday and Friday.
Ministry of Defence and Veterans Affairs spokesperson Petrus Shilumbu confirmed the deaths of Jonas Kambonde (27) and Patrick Kooper (30) on Saturday.
“It is unfortunate that the NDF lost two young soldiers through suicide,” he said.
Shilumbu said the incidents highlight the importance of seeking help when faced with personal challenges, adding it is often difficult to intervene when individuals do not speak out or show visible signs of distress.
“It is difficult for the ministry to assist if people do not seek help,” he said, while encouraging all members of the force to make use of available support services when needed.
According to the Namibia Press Agency, the incidents took place at the Otjiwarongo and Otavi military bases, respectively.
Both incidents remain under investigation.
