Online Reporter
Luthando Mapepa
Correspondent
BRIGADIER General Ernest Shamu has assumed command of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) 3 Infantry Brigade in Mutare, succeeding Brigadier General Arnold Gumbo.
The handover-takeover ceremony took place at Herbert Chitepo Barracks today, where Lieutenant General Emmanuel Matatu, Commander of the ZNA, presided over the event.
Lieutenant General Matatu said the redeployment is a routine measure aimed at developing senior officers for more senior roles.
He described the transition as part of the ZNA’s efforts to enhance leadership capacity.
Lieutenant General Matatu praised both Brigadier General Gumbo and Brigadier General Shamu, highlighting their extensive experience and loyalty, which have characterised their service to the army since 1980.
“We assign posts as vacancies arise, and we move our officers to different environments to give them more grounding. This ensures that as they grow in their careers, we end up with officers capable of handling different situations in the ever-changing environment within our profession. There is nothing sinister about the changeover we have just witnessed,” he said.
Brigadier General Gumbo described his time at 3 Brigade as one of the greatest honours of his military career, and expressed gratitude to traditional leaders, Provincial Joint Operations Committee, Government departments, and business community for their support in promoting peace and stability in Manicaland.
“As I pass the mantle of command, I do so with immense pride in what we have achieved together and with confidence in my successor,” he said.
Brigadier General Shamu pledged to uphold the standards set by his predecessor. He assured his superiors that he would lead with loyalty, integrity, and professionalism as he undertakes his new command responsibilities.
He also paid tribute to outgoing commander Brigadier General Gumbo for leaving behind a united, disciplined, and well-trained force.
He assured his superiors that he would discharge his duties with loyalty, integrity, and diligence, while maintaining the formation’s record of success in both internal and external operations.
“I am here not to fail it, but to keep it in good shape, sustain unity of purpose, and drive it forward,” he said.
