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PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa today officiated at the 2025 Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Recruit Graduation Ceremony, where he commended the 907 graduating recruits for their commitment to serving the nation.
The ceremony, held at the Mkushi Police Academy, marked a significant milestone in the transformation of the police force, with a focus on modern policing techniques and community engagement.
In his address, President Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of the academy’s rebranding from Morris Depot to Mkushi Police Academy in 2023, a move aimed at honouring the sacrifices of Zimbabwe’s liberation heroes, particularly the gallant women who perished at the ZIPRA Mkushi Girls’ Camp in Zambia in 1978.
“The name Mkushi Police Academy honours the contributions of our gallant daughters who fought for our independence. It is my hope that the graduating class and the police service as a whole will continue to be inspired by their courage and selflessness,” said the President.
The graduating class, comprising 624 male and 283 female recruits from all 10 provinces, underwent a rigorous two-year Diploma programme. The curriculum included contemporary policing courses such as Criminal Law, Human Rights and Policing, Public Order Management, and Information Communication and Technology (ICT). The inclusion of Zimbabwean history and civic education was also praised for fostering a deeper understanding of the nation’s heritage and identity.
President Mnangagwa urged the Commissioner General of Police, Stephen Mutamba, to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and patriotism. He emphasised the need for the ZRP to adapt to the evolving socio-economic landscape and emerging security challenges, both locally and internationally.
“Modern policing requires higher levels of knowledge and broader skills. The ZRP must remain alert and constantly review its syllabi to ensure best practices in smart policing,” he said.
The President also applauded the ZRP’s partnerships with academic institutions such as the University of Zimbabwe and Bindura University of Science Education, which have enriched the training programme. He further commended the force’s participation in United Nations peacekeeping missions, highlighting its standing as a professional and globally respected institution.
On the operational front, President Mnangagwa reiterated the government’s commitment to equipping the ZRP with modern tools, including 500 recently acquired vehicles and ICT-enabled systems. He also praised innovations such as the Automated Fingerprint System, which enhances efficiency in the justice delivery system.
Addressing pressing national issues, the President called for intensified efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, road traffic accidents, and environmental crimes. He expressed concern over the 93 percent increase in road fatalities in 2024, urging the ZRP to expedite the implementation of the Electronic Traffic Management System.
“The challenge of drug abuse and road carnage threatens the fabric of our society. The ZRP must work closely with stakeholders to address these issues decisively,” he said.
In closing, President Mnangagwa congratulated the graduands and their families, urging the new officers to serve with honesty, integrity, and discipline.
“As you go to your various stations, work among communities with humility and decisively deal with crime, without fear or favour. Together, we will build our motherland, brick by brick, towards Vision 2030,” he said.
The ceremony concluded with a display of well-coordinated drills by the graduands, symbolising their transition from civilians to trained security personnel.
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