Online Reporter
Sikhumbuzo Moyo, Zimpapers Writer
SOLDIERS have been urged to shun corruption, drug and substance abuse and breaches of procurement protocols while executing their duties.
Speaking during a joint Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) graduation ceremony for 271 officers on Friday, Quartermaster Staff, Col Tryvern Nkoma, emphasised professionalism, integrity and adherence to regulations.
The graduates were drawn from the Army, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) and the Ministry of Defence.
The officers completed courses in basic cookery, food and beverage services, senior catering management, basic and intermediate stores management, procurement for junior non-commissioned officers, basic learner drivers, recovery operations and mechanical transport senior non-commissioned members administration.
“Let me take this opportunity to urge you to shun all forms of corruption, especially those related to procurement. Every spending must be supported by a proper paper trail,” said Col Nkoma. He expressed confidence that the graduates would execute their duties professionally.
Col Nkoma further stressed that officers must adhere to basic procedures within the ordinance and transport constitutions as laid down in accounting and movement regulations. “In the same regard, I strongly urge you not to partake in criminal activities such as robbery, drug and substance abuse,” he said.
Of the graduates, six were from the ZRP, nine from the ZPCS and six from the Ministry of Defence.
Col Nkoma said the graduating courses fulfilled the 2025 ZNA Training Directive, aligned with the QS Br Performance Management Directive, which emphasises training as the main effort for skills development.
“This ensures members understand and adhere to organisational policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements, while performance management regularly assesses outcomes against set goals and standards,” he said.
Col Nkoma added that the graduates have been equipped with high-level skills to maximise competence and quality in resource management. All students met expectations, except for two who were returned to units due to medical issues and absence without leave.
Col Nkoma also highlighted that the nine logistics courses’ syllabi had been reviewed to include contemporary subjects such as Civil-Military Relations, Security Awareness, Crime Awareness Campaigns, First Aid, and Asymmetric and Cyber Warfare. Physical fitness policies were also strictly implemented. “Such continuous reviews enhance relevance, engagement, integration, and training outcomes,” he said.
