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Speaking at the 2012 President’s Medal Shoot Competition at Cleveland Rifle Range in Harare yesterday, the President urged Zimbabweans to be united and shun violence.
“Maintaining peace is not the responsibility of our security services only but is indeed the responsibility of all citizens. We all can positively contribute to peace and stability through our actions or inaction.
“Since we are preparing ourselves for elections, may I call upon all people to complement the security services in maintaining peace, security and stability.
“May I repeat my call on everyone to shun violence all the time but especially before, during and after elections,” he said.
The Head of State and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces said peace should not be taken for granted.
“In peace time it is easy to forget and even take it (peace) for granted. Recent conflicts in the Maghreb region and Mali have vividly demonstrated the folly of taking peace for granted.
“The sudden eruption of war can result in untold suffering, destruction of life and a country’s infrastructure. Sad stories caused by strife and conflict, should serve as stark reminders for us to cherish the peace, security and stability that we enjoy,” he said.
The competitions were held under the theme: “Sharpening skills at arms, peace, security and stability”.
Turning to the competitions, President Mugabe said while they were a sporting discipline, they were aimed at enhancing marksmanship skills.
“This is aptly captured in the theme for this year. If they are to be always ready to fulfil their roles in defence of our country and in maintaining peace and tranquility, our forces must continue sharpening their skills, in every way possible, sporting included,” he said.
The President’s Medal Shoot draws participants from the security forces, civilians and war veterans.
This year’s event was co-hosted by the Air Force of Zimbabwe and the President’s Department.
President Mugabe said the participation of civilians in the competitions promoted “cross-fertilisation” of ideas and experiences.
He said the competitions were getting popular every year with more women participating.
“Also of note is that the number of participants has steadily continued to grow . . . . This is clear testimony of the growing popularity of the competition.
“I commend the organisers of this competition for taking positive steps in providing equal opportunities to both women and men, which is in line with Zimbabwe’s commitment to advancing gender mainstreaming across all sectors,” he said.
President Mugabe thanked several companies such as Mbada Holdings, Liquid Telecom, Holiday Inn and Multichoice Zimbabwe for donating towards the competition.
He urged the winners to maintain the high standards and discipline they exhibited during the competition. “To those who did not make it today, please do not despair, keep on practising and aiming for the elusive bull. I am sure one day you will make it.”
Sergeant Admore Amushoni of the AFZ was this year’s overall winner and walked away with a trophy and $2 200 cash.
Corporal John Dzovani and Sergeant Dzingai Chindito, both of the Zimbabwe National Army were the runners-up.
In the women category, Sergeant Evelyn Fimba (ZNA) scooped the first prize while Chief Prison Officer Sarah Siziba (Zimbabwe Prison Service) was the runner-up.
The event was attended by Cabinet ministers, service chiefs and senior Government officials.
Online Reporter