President Emmerson Mnangagwa has pledged to improve the salaries and conditions of service for the country’s defence forces.
In a national address to mark Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Day at State House on Tuesday, President Mnangagwa said his government is determined to provide such things as housing, transport and medical facilities among others, for the defence forces. He said:
I am aware of the sacrificial nature and service ethos of the defence forces. However, my administration remains determined to improve the salaries and conditions of service for our forces.
Housing, transport and medical facilities among other requirements are being improved in recognition of the role and sacrifices made by our Defence Forces in the conduct of their duties.
Mobility, requisite training equipment and research and development needs will be equally funded to ensure the modernisation and improvement of our national defence capabilities.
Vice Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Defence and War Veterans Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and service chiefs attended the virtual ceremony.
The 40th celebrations of the ZDF were this year held under the theme “ZDF: Celebrating 40 Years of Excellent Service to the People”.