Nine ZNA officers elevated to Lieutenant‑Colonel

Wallace Ruzvidzo Herald Reporter THE European Union has mobilised €195,9 million for 10 projects across the Sadc region, covering peace and security, agriculture, trade, natural resources management, digital transformation and infrastructure development, the bloc has said. The Sadc Secretariat, led by Executive Secretary Mr Elias Magosi, held its first quarterly meeting of the 2026/27 financial year, reaffirming its strong partnership in driving trade, development and regional integration. In a communiqué yesterday, SADC said the EU’s initiatives were already making a difference, from strengthening disaster risk management and deploying emergency response teams in Mozambique, South Africa, and Madagascar, to expanding market access and supporting regional agricultural policy. “Co chaired by Mr Elias Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary and HE Ambassador Ms Petra Pereyra, Head of the EU Delegation to Botswana and SADC, the meeting, which was held virtually, reviewed progress on EU funded programmes under the 2021-2027 Multiannual Indicative Programme for Sub Saharan Africa (MIP SSA). “The EU has mobilised €195,9 million to support ten projects across the SADC region, covering peace and security, agriculture, trade, natural resources management, digital transformation, and infrastructure development,” said the bloc. This year also marks 10 years since the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) was signed, a landmark accord that has boosted exports, opened markets, and strengthened economic ties between Southern Africa and Europe. The EPA has been central to trade facilitation and regional integration, ensuring that businesses and communities benefit from expanded opportunities. During the meeting, Mr Magosi noted that trade remained a cornerstone of regional integration, pointing out that it generates jobs, builds resilience, and drives prosperity. “He stressed that cooperation with the EU is essential for the SADC region to fully unlock its potential through stronger trade systems and deeper integration. “He also expressed appreciation to the EU for its continued support, saying it has strengthened institutions and created opportunities for businesses, farmers, and communities across the region,” said Sadc. The EU’s Ambassador Pereyra reiterated the bloc’s commitment to shared prosperity, stressing that trade is a powerful driver of development and regional integration. She noted that continued investment in strategic corridors, agriculture, and digital transformation is helping lay the foundation for deeper cooperation and wider opportunities for citizens. “She further thanked Sadc for its leadership and dedication, noting that the EU’s support is most effective when matched by the region’s own commitment to building a stronger, more connected community,” said the Secretariat. Both sides reaffirmed their determination to shape the next phase of cooperation. The upcoming Annual Action Plan (AAP 2026) will prioritise institutional capacity building, NaturAfrica II, and efforts to combat trafficking and organised crime. “With trade and integration at the core, the partnership aims to deliver even greater impact, ensuring that Sadc citizens, businesses and communities continue to benefit from stronger ties with Europe and a more resilient regional economy,” reads the communique.

Columbus Mabika

Herald Reporter

PRESIDENT Mnangagwa yesterday promoted nine Zimbabwe National Army majors to the rank of Lieutenant‑Colonel.

The President effected the promotions in terms of the Defence Act, which empowers him to elevate officers on the advice of the Minister of Defence, acting on recommendations from the Commander of the ZNA or the Air Force.

Those promoted are Benjamin Zephania, Sean Tafadzwa Mnangagwa, Wilfred Makazhe, Dorothy Masendeke, Gibson Matsveru, Lovemore Moyo, Knowledge Murombo, Tendai Chirinda and Patrick Machinga.

Conferring the new insignia of rank on the officers, ZNA Brigadier‑General (Administration Staff) Christopher Rangwana said the promotions were a clear testimony to hard work, discipline and loyalty.

“Your promotion is evidence that you possess the requisite qualities and attributes of military leadership at this level. Your recognition for such an esteemed rank and appointment is the result of an exhaustive assessment by the Command Element,” he said.

“It is also prudent to note that His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander‑in‑Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), Cde Dr ED Mnangagwa, has conferred upon you these ranks to capacitate you to better serve those above and below you with utmost loyalty, integrity, patriotism and strict adherence to the laws and regulations of Zimbabwe.”

Brig‑Gen Rangwana said the history of Zimbabwe’s defence forces in African Union and United Nations missions, as well as cooperation with fellow SADC countries, required competent and knowledgeable personnel capable of operating within the global defence environment.

He urged the newly promoted officers to ensure the full implementation of Government policies and initiatives as the country works towards attaining upper middle‑income status by 2030.

“I urge you to double your efforts and excel in our mandate to support Vision 2030 by maintaining a peaceful environment, so that Government efforts to turn around the economy succeed without fail,” he said.

“Let us not relent, backtrack or rest on our laurels, but instead justify the confidence reposed in us by the Commander Defence Forces and His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander‑in‑Chief of the ZDF.”

Speaking on behalf of the promoted officers, Lieutenant‑Colonel Wilfred Makazhe pledged continued loyalty to the Constitution and the command establishment.

He thanked President Mnangagwa for the confidence shown in elevating him to the new rank.

“We undertake to remain loyal to the Constitution and the command establishment of the ZDF, while continuing to serve the people of Zimbabwe,” he said. “I also take this opportunity to sincerely thank the Commander ZNA and the entire command element for tirelessly mentoring us throughout our military careers spanning several years. It is through your unwavering guidance that we have reached this stage.”

Lieutenant‑Colonel Sean Tafadzwa Mnangagwa concurred, saying the promoted officers would continue to work diligently for the betterment of the army and the nation.

“As we express our profound appreciation on this occasion, we are cognisant of the responsibilities ahead of us and the organisational processes that have made this ceremony possible,” he said.

“Mindful of the continued trust and greater responsibility bestowed upon us, we resolve to add value to the ZDF by contributing meaningfully to the fulfilment of its mandate and vision.”