Tendai Gukutikwa
Ray Bande
Senior Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has embarked on a series of community development projects in Manicaland, underscoring its commitment to supporting local communities.
Some of the ongoing projects in Manicaland include the construction of a seven-roomed registry office in Buhera, 10-roomed girls’ dormitory at Nyatsanza Primary School in Mutasa North Constituency, dairy and community shop at Manica Bridge, as well as the building of a church at St Columbus Parish in Mutasa North Constituency.
These initiatives are in addition to the numerous infrastructure development projects undertaken by the ZDF over the years in the province, demonstrating its dedication to improving the lives of communities, promoting socio-economic development, and fostering a sense of unity and cooperation.
Manicaland on Tuesday commemorated the 45th Defence Forces Day at the Johane Marange Apostolic Church grounds, which was testament to the country’s appreciation for its defence forces, who have been instrumental in fostering national peace and security.
The event was marked by heartfelt tributes and renewed pledges of vigilance.
In attendance were local community members, Government officials, and defence forces personnel.
The various infrastructure development projects in Manicaland have been hailed as a significant contribution to the province’s socio-economic prosperity.
Defence Minister, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri highlighted the ZDF’s remarkable journey, noting that it has transitioned seamlessly from being liberators to nation-builders, exemplifying a commitment to purpose.
“Your Excellency, under your astute guidance, you have taught us to be a self-reliant force. Production at Zimbabwe Defence Industries is being revamped to satisfy the demand for military consumables by your force. Our farms around the country do, not only meet our food needs, but also contribute to national food security. Plans are afoot to establish an entity to provide commercial construction services to the public.
“Your aspirations for lasting peace and security resonate well with the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly with regard to the continental body’s objective of silencing the guns in Africa by ending all forms of wars, conflicts, and gender based violence and displacements. It can never be over-emphasised that peace and security are a foundation for sustainable socio-economic development. In line with tradition, the 2025 commemorations commenced with the launch of Community Assistance Projects from 28 July to 7 August 2025.
“The completed projects, which include schools and clinics, were constructed free of charge by Zimbabwe Defence Forces skilled personnel in partnership with well-wishers and communities. The Community Assistance Programme is consistent with your desire to inspire new heroes to champion national developmental aspirations as articulated by your development philosophy: “Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatigwa nevene vayo.” The projects are part of peacetime operations by your army and cement the symbiotic fish and water relationship between the people’s army and the communities. Today, they stand, not only as sentinels of sovereignty, but as architects of our collective future, bridging the past and the promise of tomorrow. We honour their legacy and the path they continue to forge for us all,” she said.
Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza delivered the Presidential speech before conferring medals on selected veterans of the liberation struggle.
The event featured a vibrant cultural programme, with several entertainment and arts groups performing alongside the Zimbabwe National Army’s marching drills, cadet group, and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services band, ensuring attendees were entertained throughout the celebrations.
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