Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa and Takudzwa Mangrozah
THE Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, yesterday adorned epaulettes bearing insignia of Brigadier-General on Colonel Jones Sasata Marodza at Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Harare following his promotion.
Speaking at the ceremony, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the promotion by President Mnangagwa was a result of a rigorous assessment by the Defence Forces Command Element.
He urged Brig-Gen Marodza to embrace teamwork and rise to the heightened responsibilities that come with the new rank.
“On your elevation from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier-General by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, your promotion is testimony to the fact that you possess the required qualities and attributes of military leadership at a general level.
“Your appointment is the result of a thorough and exhaustive assessment by the Command Element.”
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said it is now Brig-Gen Marodza’s responsibility to demonstrate the merit of the rank he has been granted.
He added that promotions are characterised by an increase in duties and responsibilities and Brig-Gen Marodza “will not be an exception”.
“By now, you should have noted that appointment to the substantive rank of Brigadier General is certainly not a walk in the park”.
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the national army is now in the transitional economic and institutional revitalisation phase, which requires complementary effort.
“Let me once again congratulate you on your deserved elevation to the rank of Brigadier General, and I wish you the very best in your appointment.
“You are the only Brigadier-General we have promoted this year, so this is indeed a major achievement on your part and for your family,” he said.
In his acceptance remarks, Brig-Gen Marodza expressed gratitude to the Commander, his family, and colleagues, pledging loyalty to the national Constitution and the values of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
“On my own behalf, that of my wife, my children, some of whom are present here, and that of the entire family, I would like to sincerely thank you, General in Command of the Zimbabwe National Army, for bestowing upon me this promotion today.
“The award is not just for me; it is for my family and for the entire Zimbabwe Defence Forces in particular,” he said.
Brig-Gen Marodza said he appreciated the opportunities provided by the organisation and looks forward “to the challenges and opportunities ahead”.
“I recognise the hard work and dedication of my team members and appreciate their contribution,” he said.
