Remain resolute, defence forces urged

country’s sovereignty.
Outgoing Commander of 4 Infantry Brigade, Brigadier General Eliah Bandama last Friday said the country is facing an array of challenges because of illegal economic sanctions imposed by the West.
The embargo, he said, was aimed at testing the resilience of the country’s defence forces.
Brig-Gen Bandama was speaking during the handover/takeover command ceremony where he handed over the reins of 4 Infantry Brigade to new commander Brigadier General Chancellor Diye.
Brig- Gen Diye becomes 4 Infantry Brigade’s 15th commander since independence.
Brig Gen Bandama has been moved to 3 Infantry Brigade in Mutare.
Brig Gen Bandama said it was crucial for the country’s defence forces to find opportunities despite the hard times afflicting the nation because of the sanctions.
“As soldiers, we are expected to find opportunities in these hardships and train hard to be able to face any challenges that may come our way and this demands that we become resolute and persevering in our undertakings as these measures are intended to test our resilience,” said Brig-Gen Bandama.
In his acceptance speech, Brig-Gen Diye challenged the country’s defence forces to think outside the box and overcome the effects of illegal and unjustified economic sanctions.
He said it was crucial for the country’s defence forces to use initiative and flexibility to overcome various operational challenges that were stifling efforts to meet some of the defence forces’ obligations.
“I was also briefed that the brigade has not been spared of operational, administrative and logistical challenges as a result of the obtaining political and economic challenges facing the country . . .,” said Brig-Gen Diye.
He said he was proud to take charge of the formation which has an illustrious history as evidenced by several roles the brigade played mainly in international peace-keeping duties in countries such as Mozambique, Angola and DRC among others.
ZNA commander Lieutenant General Philip Valerio Sibanda witnessed the handover/take over.