President Edgar Lungu has officially launched Zambia's first-ever Special Forces Marine Unit designed to counter acts of piracy on the country's territorial waters.

President Lungu, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, also announced that he would be leading negotiations with potential suppliers of modern high-tech equipment befitting operations of the Special Forces. He disclosed this while speaking during the launch of the 48-Marine Unit in Nchelenge District of Luapula Province on Sunday.

He said the creation of the unit was of the essence as it would ensure the security of Zambia's waters.

"This is why my Government authorised the creation of this unit and that it is manned by Special Forces. I am confident that with their presence, our people will be protected and illegal border crossing curbed. It will also ensure the effective enforcement of the fish ban," the President said.

While he acknowledged that the new unit would face teething problems, Mr. Lungu pledged to deal with the challenges and improve the well-being of military personnel.

He urged the Marine Unit to make do with the existing infrastructure and equipment while the Government mobilised more resources to help ease operations.