Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Writer
IN a demonstration of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ deepening commitment to national development, the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) on Monday officially handed over a state-of-the-art District Veterinary Office in Binga, Matabeleland North Province, a major milestone ahead of the 2025 Defence Forces Day commemorations.
The cutting-edge facility, completed in record time under the Defence Forces’ Community Assistance Programme, was handed over to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
The project is a joint effort between the Ministry, the ZNA and the Department of Public Works.
“This flagship facility, the result of a powerful collaboration among the Ministry, Zimbabwe National Army and the Department of Public Works, is set to transform livestock production in Binga, a district home to over 106,000 cattle and heavily reliant on livestock for household livelihoods,” said the Ministry in a statement.
The facility boasts modern post-mortem laboratories, solar-powered cold chain systems, advanced diagnostic and disease surveillance infrastructure, and training rooms for farmer education and advisory services.
Officiating at the handover ceremony, Major General Maseko commended the initiative as a shining example of civil-military cooperation that directly benefits rural communities.
“This project speaks to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ unwavering commitment to nation building beyond traditional security roles. We urge the community to take full ownership of this vital resource which will bolster local food security, improve animal health, and stimulate economic growth,” said Major General Maseko.
Echoing the sentiment, Chief Director of Veterinary Services in the Ministry, Dr Pious Makaya, applauded the ZNA’s role in fast-tracking delivery of the facility.
“This investment is not only transformative for Binga’s livestock-driven economy but also signals our broader intention to replicate similar infrastructure across the country. The Veterinary Directorate remains accessible and committed to supporting all livestock stakeholders,” he said.
The Binga District Veterinary Office becomes the latest in a growing portfolio of infrastructure projects executed by the Defence Forces under the Community Assistance Programme, a policy thrust that reinforces the military’s role as a key partner in socio-economic development.
The handover comes just days before Zimbabwe marks Defence Forces Day, underscoring the enduring partnership between the armed forces and the civilian population.
