Defence Forces key to economic growth: Ziyambi

Trust Freddy-Herald Correspondent

Government has emphasised the critical role of the country’s defence forces in driving economic growth through the maintenance of peace, stability and humanitarian assistance during disasters.

Delivering a lecture at the joint command and staff course number 38 at the Zimbabwe Staff College, Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi said the defence forces’ efforts in upholding peace and stability are essential for economic development.

“For our country to develop economically, we need those who serve as the eyes and ears of the ordinary people, defending national interests and protecting ordinary citizens from both internal and external threats,” he said.

Minister Ziyambi urged security services to uphold their constitutional mandate, highlighting that a secure environment is vital for attracting investors.

“For any economic development to occur, you need a stable, peaceful, and safe place,” he stated.

“Investors will first assess whether the destination is safe and whether their investments will be secure.

“If the defence forces perform their duties effectively, we can rest easy knowing we are safe.”

He commended the defence forces for their swift response to Cyclone Idai, noting their pivotal role in providing humanitarian assistance during disasters.

“In terms of humanitarian assistance, they have always played a major role due to their training. When Cyclone Idai struck, the first responders were the defence forces.

“They used their aircraft to airlift those trapped and deliver essential supplies,” he said.

Minister Ziyambi also spoke about the constitutional mandates of various security agencies, including the police and the Central Intelligence Organisation.

He addressed the complexities involved in amending Zimbabwe’s Constitution, explaining the specific procedures outlined in Section 328.

“The amendment process begins with a proposal from designated officials, which must be published in the Government Gazette,” he explained.

A notice period of at least 90 days is required, followed by public consultations and hearings to gather citizens’ input.

He noted that amendments affecting term limits or entrenched provisions may necessitate a national referendum, which must be held within three months of the amendment’s passage, as specified in Section 328 (6) (a) and (b) of the Constitution.