When Namibia Was Established, There Was a UN Resolution in Force

Did you know that when Namibia was established, there was a UN resolution in force? Did you know that a UN resolution has a strong impact on Namibia? Read on to discover the role of UNTAG in Namibia’s politics and wildlife. The United Nations (UN) Resolution on Namibia was signed on July 1, 1990. It called on both parties to stop hostile acts and conduct peaceful elections. It also called for restrictions on police, military, and paramilitary activities.

(Want to experience African Bird Hunting, contact us today!)

UNTAG was established

When UNTAG was established in Namibia, the country was experiencing a difficult time. It had never been an independent country and had suffered under brutal rule for more than a century. As such, UNTAG had a difficult task in creating a democratic environment and free campaign. It also had to ensure that there was no intimidation or threats. This made it important for Namibians to feel free to vote and have their say. UNTAG’s operations in Namibia began with the deployment of its Force Commander, Lieutenant-General Prem Chand, in late February 1989.

This Indian officer took an active role in the country’s preparations for UNTAG’s deployment. Upon arrival, he was joined by Brigadier-General Daniel Opande, a Kenyan. The Division was quickly staffed and built up as the mission continued. When the mission ended in March 1990, most of the Division departed, but a few were left behind as a “wind-up” team.

UNTAG’s constitution

After 70 years of struggle, the United Nations finally intervened in Namibia. The League of Nations and other nations had been pushing for Namibia’s independence and peace. On 21 March 1990, the South African flag was lowered and the Namibian flag was raised. However, despite this, Namibia’s leaders were not satisfied with the results. During a recent visit to Namibia, the Secretary-General of the United Nations urged the leaders of both sides to meet and to work towards a political solution.

UNTAG’s mission and role were boosted by the return of the refugees. In June, all but 1,500 South African troops departed the country. Local forces established by South Africa were also demobilized under UNTAG supervision. Meanwhile, a law for the registration of voters for elections was approved by the Special Representative of the UN. Registration of voters began in all parts of the country.

UNTAG’s influence on Namibia’s politics

The presence of Canadian troops in Namibia was part of the UNTAG mission that began in March 1989, shortly after a five-nation contact group failed to mediate a withdrawal of South Africa from South West Africa. After negotiations yielded no result, the UN quickly notified the UNTAG mission and assembled an operation to ensure peace in Namibia. In addition to the UN’s 71-strong MP contingent, UNTAG also had a new Canadian unit, the CCUNTAG. The 89 Canadian Logistics Unit was created on 11 April 1989.

The Secretary-General of the United Nations Organization for African Development (UNOPS) visited Namibia in late July and visited various parts of the country. After the initial months, he convened a meeting of leaders from all major political parties in a single room. While this was unusual, the Secretary-General made it clear that bringing the parties together was an essential step to begin effective dialogue and iron out issues.

UNTAG’s impact on Namibia’s wildlife

The UNTAG’s mission to protect wildlife and the environment has achieved impressive results, ranging from the largest population of black rhinos and cheetahs in the world to the highest density of elephants. The UNTAG’s efforts have helped save the rhinos and elephants from extinction and increased the number of lions by half in the northwest. However, some concerns remain over the impact UNTAG’s conservation efforts are having on Namibia’s wildlife.

In January 1978, the PLAN crossed into Namibia from Angola. Following this intense fighting, the Special Representative of the UN authorized the presence of a small South African force to restore order. Over 300 PLAN fighters were killed during the conflict. The conflict has since ended, but the impact on the wildlife of Namibia has not diminished. The fight has caused a range of health and environmental problems for Namibia’s wildlife, making it difficult for local people to live in the country.