Staff Reporter
Highlights National Security and Development
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has praised the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) for its unwavering commitment to national security and highlighted their critical role in the country's development and Vision 2030 goals.
Speaking, to a packed Rufaro stadium, during the ZDF Day celebrations, today, the President underscored the pivotal role the ZDF plays in maintaining peace, unity, and security, which are essential for Zimbabwe's socio-economic progress.
“On behalf of the people and Government of Zimbabwe, I congratulate the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for their achievements in advancing the peace, unity, and development of our beloved motherland. The nation further salutes you for your unflinching commitment to safeguarding the territorial integrity of our great country,” said President Mnangagwa.
The President acknowledged the challenges posed by international security threats, including terrorism, cross-border crime, and foreign interference, particularly in the Global South.
He called for robust military systems and enhanced regional cooperation to counter these threats effectively.
"There remains a strong need to enhance not only our domestic military systems but cross-border military and security cooperation. SADC is indivisible, united, and one," he added, welcoming delegations from Zambia and Malawi who were present at the event.
President Mnangagwa also highlighted the ZDF's efforts to support national development through various civil-military initiatives.
He commended the Defence Forces for their role in constructing modern school infrastructure, providing free healthcare at the grassroots level, and assisting in combating illegal activities along the country's borders.
"The ZDF remains a critical cog in our national development agenda," he remarked, citing the construction of schools and other community development projects as examples of their contribution to national progress.
The President further announced plans to improve the welfare of the ZDF members, including the construction of 3 000 housing units, the expansion of the transport fleet, and the acceleration of the Defence Forces Referral Hospital at Manyame Air Force Base.
"My Government is committed to ensuring that all military hospitals and health institutions have requisite modern equipment and adequate medicines," he assured.
In addition to domestic initiatives, President Mnangagwa highlighted Zimbabwe's commitment to regional and international peace efforts.
The President praised the ZDF for their participation in United Nations missions and their contribution to the African Union's "Silence the Guns" initiative.
"Zimbabwe, under the Second Republic, is a ‘Friend to all and an enemy of none.’ We firmly subscribe to diplomacy and dialogue as the sustainable route for the resolution of conflicts," he stated.
The President reaffirmed the ZDF's role as the guarantor of Zimbabwe's peace and security.
"Despite the negative effects of illegal sanctions imposed by some Western countries, the ZDF stands firm. We thank you all, officers, men, and women, for your loyalty and consistent service to Zimbabwe," he said.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day celebrations were held under the theme, “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030”
