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Harare Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) should be equipped with military technology to adapt to changing warfare, Defence Minister Dr Sydney Sekeramayi, has said.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the graduation of 52 officers of the Junior Staff Course number 62 at the Zimbabwe Staff College in Harare yesterday, Dr Sekeramayi said it was important to equip the Defence Forces with military technology because of innovations in information technology.
“Due to the dynamic nature of technology, the emerging nature of conflicts and to a larger extent, innovation in military technology, the face of warfare in general is changing dramatically.
“Asymmetric warfare is one such emerging new phenomenon that the big powers are using against developing countries like Zimbabwe. I am glad that the Zimbabwe Staff College takes into account all these developments when designing its curriculum in order to counter future threats,” he said.
Dr Sekeramayi said training in military technology, military leadership and socio-economic issues would broaden understanding of the challenges in various parts of the world.
He said professional training in the security sector had raised the country’s image internationally.
“Investments in professional training and career development activities over the years have seen the Zimbabwe Defence Forces being an envy of many.
“This is evidenced by the prestigious achievements made by our gallant uniformed forces both locally and internationally,” Dr Sekeramayi said.
Training programmes, especially in military technology would preserve the legacy of the founding fathers of the ZDF.
“Training is one of the pillars of success for our Defence Forces as it improves their efficiency and effectiveness in maintaining peace and tranquility in our beloved Zimbabwe, Sadc, Africa and beyond,” said Dr Sekeramayi.
He challenged graduands to stand firm in defending the country’s sovereignty.
“I urge you to remain vigilant and patriotic as some elements bent on reversing the gains of our independence are always looking for the slightest opportunity to exploit. The defence of our sovereignty is not negotiable and it will never be bought or sold,” he said.
The graduation witnessed the awarding of certificates to 45 officers from the Zimbabwe National Army, two from the Air Force of Zimbabwe, two from the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services, two from Namibia Defence Forces and one from Malawi Defence Forces
derick.khumalo