EUROPEAN UNION DONATES COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT TO THE MULTINATIONAL JOINT TASK FORCE AS PART OF ITS SUPPORT TO COMBAT INSURGENCY IN THE LAKE CHAD BASIN REGION

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), on Wednesday 29 March 2023, received some communication equipment from the European Union ( EU) through its implementing partner, the COGINTA NGO at the Headquarters MNJTF Camp Farcha Ndjamena, Chad. The equipment includes a long-range HF radio transceiver with accessories and power supply, a portable HF Radio transceiver with accessories and solar power supply, a portable short-range VHF radio transceiver, deployable tactical radio relay amongst others.

In his remarks, the Force Commander (FC) MNJTF Maj Gen AK Ibrahim, appreciated the support of the EU in terms of training and equipment donated to the MNJTF and reassured the EU that the MNJTF will make optimal use of the support in the fight against insurgency in the LCB. The FC appreciated the immense support the Force gets from the EU which he said has made the Force more efficient in its counter-insurgency operations. He wished the EU countries continued peace and greater prosperity. He used the opportunity to inform the gathering that a new FC has been appointed for the MNJTF which would resume next month and called for the same cooperation to be extended to the new FC when he resumes enabling the MNJTF to achieve its mission.

Earlier, the representative of the COGINTA NGO, Mr. Christoph Dubois stated that the equipment was part of the military package provided by COGINTA to enhance the operational capacities of the MNJTF troops in the fight against the BHT in the LCB region. He further informed the MNJTF that more training and tactical equipment would soon be delivered to the MNJTF troops including counter-improvised explosive device training and equipment, night vision goggles, metal detectors, and vehicle security equipment among others. He appreciated the MNJTF leadership for the good relationship between COGINTA and the Force which has made coordination easier.

Speaking during the event, the representative of the EU, Mr. Thierry Marotte appreciated the efforts of the MNJTF in the fight against insurgency and terrorism in the LCB region and recognised the MNJTF as a regional response to the collective threat. He also applauded the MNJTF for the robust synergy between the member states in accomplishing its mandate. He further promised that the EU will continue to provide equipment and specific training to enhance the operational capabilities and capacities of the MNJTF troops and to enable troops to conduct operations in a professional manner in line with AU standards.

3. Present at the event were the DFC MNJTF, Brig Gen Asouallai Blama, the COS, the acting Head of the AU-MST Mr. Abdou Mahaman, the CCL partners, the Chief of cells and other MNJTF military staff officers. Highlights of the event included a static display of the equipment, group photographs, and an interview with the press. The event was hitch-free.

Benn Raphael
Captain
Deputy CMPIO
HQ MNJTF
NDJAMENA
29 March 2023