Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Reporter
COMMANDER Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Emmanuel Matatu yesterday presided over the promotion of Brigadier-General Francis Mutisi to the rank of Major-General, capping a military career spanning more than 46 years, from the liberation struggle to the country’s post-independence defence structures.
The elevation, conferred with effect from July 3, 2026, recognises decades of service across command, staff and diplomatic postings and comes as the newly-promoted Major-General prepares to retire at the end of the year.
Gen Matatu said Maj-Gen Mutisi’s promotion reflected a long and distinguished service record that spanned unit command, staff work and diplomatic postings, including his role in shaping early army procedures.
“Your promotion is well-deserved, and this is a recognition of your services to the nation, both before and after our independence.
“The rank that has been conferred on you is substantive even in retirement; it carries weight, it carries responsibility, and it creates many expectations from many quarters on you.”
Gen Matatu urged the newly-promoted Major-General to remain available to the ZDF even after retirement, noting that his experience could still benefit the organisation.
“The ZDF is your home, literally;you grew up here, together with the ZDF itself in its development,” he said.
“Do not hesitate to come forward when you need us to step in and help you in any way.”
In response, Maj-Gen Mutisi expressed humility at the honour, dedicating his new rank to President Mnangagwa and the Commander of the Defence Forces.
“I want to dedicate this rank to him, and I’m very grateful that I now carry this rank on me.
“You sat down, you recommended it to the Commander-in-Chief, and he endorsed it. I’m very, very humble for this promotion,” he said.
Maj-Gen Mutisi said he was ready to step into retirement after turning 70, describing his exit as the beginning of a quieter chapter after decades of service.
“I am ready to retire because of age, turning 70 at the end of the year, and I’m ready to face the new phase of life out of service, but I will be serving quietly.
“I had the opportunity to serve right from the first commander.”
Maj-Gen Mutisi also paid tribute to his family, crediting its support for his achievements throughout his military career.
“And finally, my sincere thanks to the family. They made me who I am today, and I want to thank them very sincerely.”
