Online Reporter
Patrick Chitumba, [email protected]
ZIMBABWE DEFENCE FORCES (ZDF) personnel, including those from the Air Force of Zimbabwe’s (AFZ) Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru, are actively engaging in community assistance programmes this week, focusing on vulnerable groups.
Part of the annual ZDF Community Assistance Week, these efforts aim to enhance military-civilian ties and highlight the Defence Forces’ role in national development beyond security.
As Zimbabwe prepares to celebrate ZDF Day, these community-based activities exemplify the Defence Forces’ holistic contribution to peace, development and national unity.
In this spirit, AFZ members on Monday visited Batanai Old People’s Home in the Senga suburb of Gweru, where they spent time with elderly residents and provided essential services, including free health check-ups.
Led by Air Commodore Mubaira Dliwayo, Commander of Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, the personnel also took part in cleaning the facility, leaving the elderly in a significantly improved and hygienic environment.
The following day, the team visited the Queen of Peace Rehabilitation Centre, where they donated essential supplies and engaged with patients.
Air Commodore Dliwayo emphasised the importance of collaboration between the military and the community in driving national development.
He noted that the week serves as a powerful reminder that the military’s responsibility extends beyond the battlefield, encompassing acts of compassion and support for the underprivileged.
“This week offers us an opportunity to engage with various community initiatives aimed at improving lives across Zimbabwe. Whether through food drives, educational programmes, or strengthening health services, each contribution matters,” he said.
Air Commodore Dliwayo reaffirmed the AFZ’s commitment to implementing community-focused programmes in line with the Second Republic’s development agenda and the national vision of leaving no one and no place behind.
Queen of Peace Rehabilitation Centre Director, Mrs Stella Khumalo, praised the AFZ for taking time out of their demanding schedules to visit the facility.
“This is a very commendable gesture by members of the uniformed forces. It is not every day that we receive goods and services that directly contribute to the recovery of our patients,” she said.
One recovering patient at the centre, Mr Justice Dondo, said the AFZ visit gave him a renewed sense of belonging. He pledged to assist others once he reintegrates into society.
“I want to take this opportunity to thank the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, particularly our officers from Josiah Tungamirai Airbase. You came and spent time with us, bringing along much-needed supplies.
Some of us have struggled to access even the basic necessities required for daily survival,” he said.
