Uniformed forces urged to unite for national security

Joshua Muswere

Herald Correspondent

THE country’s uniformed forces should work together and complement each other’s efforts to ensure the safety and security of the nation, the Deputy Minister of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs, Norbert Mazungunye, has said.

Speaking at the first pass out parade of this year for the VIP protection course of the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service held at Shamva Battlefield in Mashonaland Central Province yesterday, Deputy Minister Mazungunye highlighted the need for continued collaboration between the country’s security and justice service providers.

“It is through this unity that we can effectively safeguard our hard-worn independence and uphold the principles of the Constitution.”

This year’s course saw 207 males and 43 females graduating after acquiring intensive skills such as close protection, threat assessment and advanced tactical operations. The ZPCS is responsible for the protection of senior judiciary officials.

It delved into the rich history of Zimbabwe thereby fostering patriotism, loyalty and nationalism, further equipping trainees with robust understanding of weapon handling, securing vital installations, privileges and immunities of VIPs and diplomats, and enhancing skills in radio communication.

Deputy Minister Mazungunye said the collaboration between the ZPCS and the police was a commendable shift in responsibilities which called for the utmost level of diligence and professionalism from the graduating cadres.

“To the officers, the shift in responsibilities, with the ZPCS now providing VIP protection for judiciary officials, is testament to the trust and confidence bestowed in your abilities.”

“However, despite the training you have undergone, remember that your strength lies not only in your skills but also your character. Accordingly, l urge you to exhibit the highest level of discipline befitting of cadres to be emulated by your peers”.

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Commissioner General Moses Chihobvu, emphasised the importance of such a milestone in the execution of the mandate of the ZPCS.

“I’m delighted to state that, having successfully gone through the rigorous training exercise, the men and women before us today are now part of the close protection unit section. The training they received will go a long way in the execution of our mandate.

“As CPU officers, remember to uphold high standards of discipline and remain focused. The discipline and focus that you demonstrate are not merely for show but integral to your careers.”

The ZPCS Commissioner General was recently awarded an international Corrections and Prisons Association Head of Service Award at the recent excellence awards ceremony held at the ICPA 2024 annual conference in Singapore.