Online Reporter
ZIMBABWEANS today pay tribute to members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) that have since independence in 1980 defended the Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and territorial integrity against the country’s detractors.
Citizens gather at different venues across the country for the ZDF Day commemorations but the main event will be at Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces have remained patriotic and committed to defending the country amid machinations by the country’s enemies to cause division within their ranks.
Zimbabweans today sleep soundly because they know that their security is guaranteed. The country once again commemorates the ZDF Day when hostile anti-Zimbabwe propaganda is being disseminated through social media meant to divide the country’s forces.
President Mnangagwa, who is also the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, has commended the force for remaining united despite the attempts to cause division within its ranks.
He said since its formation, the ZDF had acquitted itself with distinction and high professionalism in executing its constitutional mandate, much to the chagrin of the country’s detractors.
President Mnangagwa has also commended ZDF for mainstreaming gender equality within its ranks and file, which has seen more females joining the ZDF.
President Mnangagwa said the ZDF’s bold move has enabled it to tap into the valuable contributions women can make to the country’s defence, peace and security initiatives. He said it was pleasing to note that the ZDF had taken a bold move to raise the number of female officer cadets enrolled at the country’s strategic military institutions.
“By so doing, you are tapping the inherent potential of women to also contribute to our national defence, peace and security effort,” said President Mnangagwa.
He said the ZDF continues to inject new officer corps within its rank and file that are well equipped to play their part in safeguarding the country’s hard-won Independence, freedom, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The prevailing peace and tranquillity should, however, not be taken for granted hence the need for military institutions to continue churning out officers equipped with the latest technology in modern warfare.
Government, on its part, has over the years been implementing different programmes aimed at improving the welfare of members of the security forces.
We want at this juncture to implore members of our security forces to continue executing their constitutional mandate so that as citizens we continue sleeping soundly, knowing very well that our security is guaranteed.
