Driven by duty: Cadet prioritises family, excels in military

WHILE other children his age prioritise fashion and luxuries, Officer Cadet, Stobart Emmanuel Pirimu (23) has completed the roofing of a seven-roomed house left unfinished by his late father.

He has demonstrated remarkable leadership and responsibility for someone so young by prioritising his family’s needs after his father’s passing in 2020.

Pirimu’s dedication extends beyond his family, as evidenced by his academic achievements, where he won the Midlands State University book prize for being the best performing academic student in his class at the Zimbabwe Military Academy (ZMA) in Gweru.

President Mnangagwa presented the award to Pirimu’s mother, Ms Tambidzanayi Chiwanza, who could not hide her happiness at her son’s accomplishments.

She expressed pride in her son and his determination to look after the family after his father’s death.

Ms Chiwanza said the need to look after the family after his father’s death motivated Pirimu to join the army.

“Stobart has been a shining example of a true leader of the family and has made me very proud,” said Ms Chiwanza.

“I want to thank God for what he has done to Stobart. He is the second born out of four children. He is a determined boy, who is growing into a man that is now looking after me and his siblings since the passing away of his father.”

Ms Chiwanza said Pirimu made a heartfelt vow to look after the family after his father’s passing.

“Instead of using money on other things, he is assisting the family. He has a bright future ahead of him. I am extremely happy that he won the book prize and was given an award by President Mnangagwa.

“He was born in Mvurwi in 2001 and attended Holy Rosary Primary school before going to Holy Rosary Secondary School. From there, he applied to join the army and today we are gathered to celebrate his success as well as that of his course mates.

“When his father died, he had not finished roofing the house, but Stobart has roofed it and is doing wonders for the family. I am so happy and may God continue to bless him,” she said.