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Columbus Mabika
Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) will remain resolute in executing its mandate of safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity, contributing to peace and security conducive for business environment, and advancing socio-economic development, Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has said.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said this yesterday while officially handing over facilities and equipment donated by three corporate companies to Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) School of Academic Training Staff at Manyame Air Base.
The facilities and equipment included a borehole from the District Develop Fund, computer desks from Allied Timbers and computers and air conditioners from Satewave Technologies.
She said peace remains a key ingredient for national prosperity.
“The ZDF will continue ensuring that there is peace and tranquillity which are key ingredients for a conducive business environment. I wish to commend the corporate world for appreciating this critical role,”she said.
Min Muchinguri-Kashiri said, Government will continue to value the support it is getting from the corporate world in various sectors of the economy.
“Government cannot do everything alone hence the value of shared responsibilities and invaluable support from our corporate friends. We are appealing for the same spirit of support from other well-wishers to consider adopting an institution,” she said.
She said by virtue of having students from SADC region, the donation had elevated the training institution to a higher regional status.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said ZDF was taking a lead in heeding President Mnangagwa’s call to modernise institutions.
Speaking on the sideline of the donation, Commander AFZ Air Marshal Elson Moyo said ZDF is fully embracing technology in tandem in order to effectively deal with emerging threats associated with digital age.
“In today’s world where technology has become a key enabler, the ZDF needs to keep pace so that we effectively fulfil our mandate of defending Zimbabwe’s airspace and territorial integrity. Against this reality, there is need to ensure that our troops are empowered with the skills required in this digital age,” he said.
“My vision for training is to enhance the use of information communication technologies in all our training programmes. Such approaches will ensure that we have officers and members with skills to effectively respond to the current and emerging threats.”
Air Marshal Moyo hailed the donation from the three organisations saying it complimented Government efforts to address challenges arising from the pandemic.
“This support is made even more significant when viewed from the reality of a constrained environment as a result of the Covid-19 induced challenges.
“Such benevolence is highly commendable and I urge others to emulate the good example set by these partners,” he said.
Allied Timbers board chairman Mr Itayi Ndudzo said, his organisation will continue to partner ZDF in future developmental programmes.
“We shall always partner with ZDF in support programmes. It is our hope that this modest contribution will enhance the learning and teaching here at the School of Academic Training Staff,” he said.
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