Mr Kapofi said some 1,300 recruits of the October 2022 intake have quit training for unfitness and related health conditions, Windhoek Observer reported.

The minister described the trend as "very alarming".

“This disqualification of the young recruits, due to physical unfitness, pregnancies, health problems and other related issues are a serious concern, and I want to encourage young people to take care of their health,” Mr Kapofi said.

President Hage Geingob announced last week that a fresh round of recruitment of 1,500 soldiers will be done in an effort to fight unemployment in the country.