Online Reporter
Good morning, Zimbabwe.
And welcome to this live broadcast from Rufaro Stadium in Harare, where President Mnangagwa is presiding over the 46th Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day celebrations.
Today, the nation pauses to honour the men and women of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces—those who stand watch to safeguard the country’s sovereignty, peace, and territorial integrity.
The commemorations are being held under the theme “ZDF: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030”, and they bring together senior Government officials, military personnel, war veterans, traditional leaders, and members of the public.
As Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the President is expected to deliver the keynote address—setting the tone for a day of ceremony and reflection. The programme will also feature a military parade, displays, and entertainment by civilian groups, alongside other activities highlighting the capabilities and discipline of the ZDF.
These celebrations come after Monday’s Heroes Day commemorations, which honoured Zimbabwe’s liberation heroes and heroines—before turning our focus today to the Defence Forces’ role in ensuring stability and progress.
The ZDF’s story traces back to Independence in 1980, when former Rhodesian security forces were integrated with the liberation armies—ZANLA and ZIPRA—laying the foundation for a unified national defence institution.
And beyond its traditional mandate, the military has increasingly played a role in community assistance, disaster response, infrastructure development, and regional peace and security initiatives.
Now, I’m pleased to have you with us as we bring you live updates from Rufaro Stadium—our reporter Harmony Agere and chief photographer Believe Nyakudjara will be keeping a close eye on every moment of the day.
Stay with us. The ceremony begins—right here.
Service Chiefs arrive
Service Chiefs led by Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Emmanuel Matatu have arrived at Rufaro Stadium for Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day Celebrations.
Vice Presidents Chiwenga, Mohadi arrives
Vice Presidents, Dr Constantino Chiwenga and Dr Kembo Mohadi, have arrived for the Defence Forces Day commemorations.
Their arrival follows that of Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who arrived moments earlier.
The two Vice Presidents exchanged warm greetings and welcomed fellow dignitaries before taking their seats in the VIP tent.
President Mnangagwa arrives
Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces President Mnangagwa, accompanied by the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, has arrived at Rufaro Stadium.
This marks the beginning of the official programme.
President Mnangagwa leads proceedings
On arrival, President Mnangagwa took the salute and participated in the singing of the National Anthem, as Air Force of Zimbabwe pilots conducted a fly-past in honour of the occasion.
The President was then joined by Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Emmanuel Matatu in inspecting the parade aboard the Akhmat armoured vehicle.
The Commander-in-Chief also witnessed the March Past in slow and quick time before taking his seat.
The official programme is now underway.
