Online Reporter
Chronicle Writer
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has appointed Major-General Emmanuel Matatu as the new Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), subsequently elevating him to the rank of Lieutenant-General.
Lt-Gen Matatu, a former Zipra cadre, takes over from Lt-Gen (Rtd) Anselem Nhamo Sanyatwe, who has since been reassigned to head the Ministry of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation. He replaced Kirsty Coventry following her recent election as the president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
In a statement last night, Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr Martin Rushwaya, said Lt-Gen Matatu’s appointment was with immediate effect.
“His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Cde Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, acting in terms of Section 216(2) as read with Section 89 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe and Sections 11(1)(a) and 11(4) of the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02), has appointed Major-General Emmanuel Matatu to the rank of Lieutenant-General and Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army with immediate effect,” he said.
In August 2021, President Mnangagwa promoted Lt Gen Matatu from Brigadier-General to Major-General, moving from the Zimbabwe National Defence University, where he was Deputy Coordinator, to Army Headquarters as Chief of Staff Administration, a post he held until his latest promotion.
Lt-Gen Matatu’s promotion to the top position in the ZNA comes as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the leadership of the country’s defence forces.
His appointment reflects Government’s confidence in his experience and capabilities in ensuring the security and stability of the nation.
