adminMunyaradzi Musiiwa, Midlands Correspondent
THE Zimbabwe National Army has appointed a new commandant for the Zimbabwe Military Academy in Gweru following the departure of Colonel Philip Khupe who was reassigned to Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters in Harare.
Col Khupe, who served as commandant of ZMA for three years was replaced by Col Stephen Gwekwerere who was Colonel General Staff at the Zimbabwe National Army Headquarters.
Acting Army Commander Major General Trust Mugoba was the Chief Witnessing Officer at the hand over take over ceremony and grand parade held at ZMA on Friday. Addressing officer cadets, army staff and members of the public, Col Khupe said the national army should complement efforts in developing local communities.
“May I take this opportunity to acknowledge the important role played by the local captains of industry and the farming community in and around Gweru. I should mention and applaud the shared common interests which we have closely pursued through mutual assistance, cooperation and friendship.
Our close collaboration has opened opportunities as well as expanded several areas of cooperation,” he said.
Col Khupe said Col Gwekwerere was a competent and experienced leader who also served at ZMA for years before he was reassigned to Harare.
“Now is the grand opportunity, I would like to hand over all my command responsibilities as commandant ZMA to Col Gwekwerere. The colonel was once here at the academy as the chief instructor before he went to 5 Infantry Brigade as deputy commandant before going to ZNA HQ,” he said.
Col Gwekwerere said he was committed to execute his commanding responsibilities diligently and fit in his predecessor’s shoes.
Online Reporter