Online Reporter
The nation will tomorrow commemorate Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ Day to celebrate the role played by the country’s uniformed forces in protecting and guaranteeing the country’s sovereignty. The Herald Defence Writer Columbus Mabika (CM) had a wide-ranging interview with ZDF Commander General Emmanuel Matatu (GEM) Below are the incepts of the interview.
CM: As the nation once again marks the Heroes and Defence Forces Day commemorations, what is the particular significance of this year’s commemorations as far as the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned?
GEM: We are commemorating 46 years of consistent guaranteeing of peace and stability which has enabled the nation to attain economic stability and development in a tranquil environment.
CM; What progress has been made to modernise the ZDF?
GEM: The ZDF is continually retooling and re-equipping in order to enable it to fulfil its mandate.
CM: With artificial intelligence, digitalisation, and advanced technology reshaping global defence landscapes, where does the ZDF stand in terms of technological adoption and integration?
GEM: The ZDF stands ready and is in the process of adopting and embracing technological advancements to measure up with the technological demands of the modern theatre.
CM: Armies worldwide are increasingly becoming hubs of innovation, and the Second Republic has championed Innovation Hubs at tertiary institutions. How has the ZDF embraced this technological drive, and how close are we to establishing a ZDF-led industrial hub?
GEM: The ZDF has a research and development department, which is the cornerstone of harnessing innovations that bring local solution to real needs, which in the long run will lead to import substitution.
CM: The Community Assistance Week has become a major highlight in the lead-up to Defence Forces Day. Since its inception, what tangible impact has this programme had on local communities?
GEM: The ZDF has made major contributions to infrastructure development through the construction of classroom blocks at schools, clinic and administration blocks which has enhanced access to social services such as education, health and administration.
CM: In light of growing unrest and conflict within the region, how prepared is the ZDF to fulfil its peacekeeping mandate
GEM: The ZDF always stands ready to fulfil its domestic, regional and international obligations I pursuit of peace and security.
CM: Turning to the welfare of our troops, what specific measures are being put in place to improve working conditions and sustain high levels of morale and motivation?
GEM: Efforts are underway to address the welfare needs of the ZDF members in the areas of health, accommodation, transport and remunerations and progress in this regard is closely linked to the performance of the national economy.
CM: With Defence Forces Day set for tomorrow, what can the public expect from the ZDF’s provincial events and activities this year?
GEM: Provincial activities are a replica of activities at national level highlights of which are parades to mark the 46 Anniversary, the Commander-in-Chief’s address and an array of entertainment activities.
CM: Finally, Commander, what is your message to the nation on this important occasion?
GEM: I implore the nation to remain focused on peace, unity and development and to shun drugs and substance abuse so that the nation continues to make progress towards the realisation of a prosperous and better future.
