Online ReporterColumbus Mabika
Herald Reporter
NEWLY-appointed Commander Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, has called for unity, discipline and accountability within the rank and file of the force.
He made the remarks on Thursday in his acceptance speech during a handover and takeover parade at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare.
Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi took over command and control of the force from General Emmanuel Matatu, who is now the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi said the army has the responsibility to protect citizens, particularly children, from 21st-century vices that are affecting communities and nations at large.
“The Zimbabwe National Army was built over a long period with great sacrifice, courage, resilience and professionalism of commanders who came well before us,” he said.
“Today, as I take this responsibility, I call on officers, men and women of the ZNA to honour their legacy and pledge to continue with the good work that has made the army what it is today.
“Our mission is not just about achieving excellence in our operations to safeguard the territorial integrity of our nation but also to inculcate a sense of unity, respect and accountability within our rank and file.”
Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi’s message at the handover and takeover parade highlighted the Zimbabwe National Army’s commitment to unity, discipline, and accountability.
He emphasised the army’s role in protecting citizens, particularly children. This aligns with the global 16-day activism campaign against violence on women and children.
Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi also addressed the need for fiscal responsibility, urging the army to optimise its resources and shed its image as a major budget spender. His remarks suggest a shift towards a more accountable and people-centric approach, marking a significant moment in the army’s evolution.
Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi called on all officers and men and women in uniform to embrace the future with optimism, saying with unity, the organisation will reach greater heights.
“As your commander, I ask you to strengthen the trust and unity that binds us together as a family as we get ahead,” he said.
“The road ahead will not always be easy but with hard work, dedication and esprit de corps, the burden will be lighter.”
His leadership, Lt Gen Tapfumaneyi said, will remain focused on improving the skill and ability to discharge duties by all through training, loyalty, dedication to duty, respect and a sense of selfless service across the rank and file.
Everything the army will do, he said, will be guided by the mandate as prescribed in Section 212 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and its related provisions and the Defence Act Chapter 11:02.
