The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has warned the public not to wear military uniforms, as it is against the law for civilians to do so.
This follows the recent appearance of expelled ZANU PF Central Committee member, Blessed Runesu Geza, in a video circulating on social media, where he called for mass protests while wearing military attire.
In a statement released on Friday, March 21, the ZDF urged people to avoid buying or wearing military-style clothing saying anyone caught breaking the law will be prosecuted. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
UTTERANCES ON SOCIAL MEDIA AND ABUSE OF MILITARY UNIFORM BY MEMBERS OF THE PUBLIC
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces further note with concern, the continued misuse of military uniform by some members of the public.
The public is advised that according to the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02), the abuse of military uniform is an offence which prohibits and criminalises the wearing of military uniform by individuals who are not members of the Defence Forces.
Section 99 (2) (c) of the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02) further states tnat:
“Any person who without authority wears or uses any decoration supplied to or at thorised for use by any member of the Defence Forces or other military forces or any decoration so nearly resembling such decoration as to be likely to deceive shall be guilty of an offence.”
Members of the public are therefore urged to desist from acquiring or wearing any items of military uniform or apparel resembling such. Those caught on the wrong side of the law will be prosecuted.
Members of the public are also urged to report to the Zimbabwe Republic Police or the Zimbabwe Military Police any persons seen wearing military uniforms outside cantonment and other designated areas, or those committing crimes on the pretext that they are members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
In this regard, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces appeal to members of the public to report anyone known to be a civilian but wearing military uniform for whatever reason.
Any member of the public who might have complaints to make against criminals abusing Zimbabwe Defence Forces attire should contact our Call Centres on cellphone numbers 0712842318 and 0716801064 or landline numbers (0242) 252094 and (0242) 791129.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

The army in Zimbabwe is warning people not to wear military uniforms because it is against the law. They are worried that people might try to cause trouble while dressed as soldiers. If anyone is caught wearing a military uniform when they shouldn't be, they will be in trouble. The army also wants people to report anyone they see wearing a military uniform who is not a real soldier. They are asking for help to keep everyone safe and make sure only real soldiers are wearing army clothes.

ZDF Warns Civilians Against Wearing Military Uniforms

Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the K-8 jet trainer he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area near Gweru.
According to a statement from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) on February 6, the crash happened about 5 kilometres east of Guinea Fowl, and the plane was badly damaged when it hit the ground.
Fortunately, no one on the ground was hurt, and there was no damage to property. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is saddened to announce the death of a young pilot, Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, who died after the Karakorum-8 (K-8) jet trainer aircraft that he was flying crashed in the Guinea Fowl area in Gweru.
The unfortunate accident happened when the pilot was on a solo consolidation general handling navigation training.
The Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General PV Sibanda, said that the news of the death of Air Lieutenant Tambudza had been received with heavy hearts and all Officers and Members were in mourning over the sad loss of a talented pilot.
On behalf of Officers, men and women of the ZDF, the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces wishes to express his heartfelt condolences to the family, relatives, friends and colleagues of our departed Officer, Air Lieutenant Tambudza.
Air Lieutenant Tambudza was a young pilot who had demonstrated immense potential and was therefore selected to undergo a jet flying conversion training course at Number 2 Squadron, Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru. At the time of his death, he was in the final phases of training on the K-8 jet.
The accident occurred about 5 kilometers East of Guinea Fowl and on impact with the ground the aircraft was extensively damaged.
There were no civilian casualties and damage to property on the ground.
In the meantime, the Air Force of Zimbabwe has constituted a Board of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the accident.
Arrangements for the funeral parade and burial for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced in due course.
</blockquote>

Air Lieutenant Nesbert Tambudza, a pilot in the Airforce of Zimbabwe, died when the plane he was flying crashed near Gweru. The crash happened while he was on solo training. The Airforce is sad about his death. He was a talented pilot being trained on a K-8 jet. The plane crashed without hurting anyone on the ground. The Air Force is investigating why the crash happened. The funeral arrangements for Air Lieutenant Tambudza will be announced later. The Air Force is mourning the loss of the young pilot.

Airforce Of Zimbabwe Pilot Killed In Plane Crash Near Gweru

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has categorically denied issuing any statement expressing discontent with the distribution of food aid, the ZiG currency, money changers, or ongoing investigations into corruption matters.
In a statement, the ZDF said the issues raised in the social media article were outside its jurisdiction as provided for by the Constitution. Said the ZDF:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned and disturbed by a sensationally wild, false and malicious social media article dated 16 May 2024 purporting to have been released by the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters.
The social media article gives the impression that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are concerned about the distribution of food aid, ZIG currency, money changers and investigation into matters of corruption.
These allegations are all falsehoods and an attempt to mislead the people of Zimbabwe on the extent of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ jurisdiction in national matters.
The responsibility and jurisdiction of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are clearly provided for in the Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No.20) 2013 section 212 which states that; “the function of the Defence Forces is to protect Zimbabwe, its people, its national interests and its territorial integrity and to uphold the Constitution”.
In the context of its mandate, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces have no business giving press statements on matters that fall outside their jurisdiction.
It is, therefore, unbelievable that such false claims purported to be coming from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Headquarters are circulating on social media using a modified letterhead to mislead the people of Zimbabwe.
To this end, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces advises the public to dismiss the false message circulating on social media with the contempt it deserves.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Defence Forces Dismisses ZiG, Money Changers Claims

Four members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) comprising a Brigadier General, two Majors, and a Sergeant, died in a head-on collision along the Harare-Bulawayo road on Tuesday.
The accident was confirmed by the ZDF Director of Poly, Public Relations and International Affairs, Brigadier General Augustine Chipwere.
In a statement seen by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/4-zdf-members-killed-in-road-traffic-accident/">The Herald</a>, Brigadier General Chipwere said the accident occurred about 2km from Battlefields in Mashonaland West Province. He said:
<blockquote>
It is with a heavy heart that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces announces the death of a general officer, two field officers and a non-commissioned member in a fatal road accident which occurred on April 16, 2024.
Brigadier General Shadreck Vezha, Major Thabani Ncube, Major Mqondisi Gumbo and Sergeant Chakabaiwa were involved in a road traffic accident at the 180km peg along the Harare-Bulawayo Road about 2km from Battlefields.
According to preliminary investigations, it was established that Brigadier General Vezha attempted to overtake an unidentified vehicle and encroached into the oncoming vehicle lane resulting in a head-on collision with the Mazda CX-5 which was travelling towards Kwekwe.
Some passengers who were aboard both vehicles sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently admitted at Gweru and Kwekwe General Hospitals.
Investigations surrounding the accident are underway and more information will be availed in due course.
</blockquote>
In May 2014, then a Lieutenant Colonel, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Shadreck_Vezha/">Shadreck Vezha</a> received a UN Medal for participating in the United Nations Syria Mission. The other three officers conferred with the UN medals were Lieutenant Colonels <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Chadokweedza_Gota&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Chadokweedza Gota (page does not exist)">Chadokweedza Gota</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Hamilton_Ndhlovu&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Hamilton Ndhlovu (page does not exist)">Hamilton Ndhlovu</a> and <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Douglas_Gwite&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Douglas Gwite (page does not exist)">Douglas Gwite</a>.
In July 2014, he was among nine lieutenant colonels who were promoted to the substantive rank of colonel by then-President Robert Mugabe. The others promoted were <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=George_Chitsva&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="George Chitsva (page does not exist)">George Chitsva</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Washington_Chidawanyika&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Washington Chidawanyika (page does not exist)">Washington Chidawanyika</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Joshua_Chikanga" title="Joshua Chikanga">Joshua Chikanga</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Beaven_Masinga&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Beaven Masinga (page does not exist)">Beaven Masinga</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Ernest_Shamu&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Ernest Shamu (page does not exist)">Ernest Shamu</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Simo_Maseko" title="Simo Maseko">Simo Maseko</a>, <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Tendai_Makavi&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Tendai Makavi (page does not exist)">Tendai Makavi</a>, and <a class="new" href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/index.php?title=Charles_Mashava&amp;action=edit&amp;redlink=1" title="Charles Mashava (page does not exist)">Charles Mashava</a>.
On 16 February 2019, Vhezha was among seven ZNA members who were promoted from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier-General.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Brigadier General Vezha Killed In Head-on Collission

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is the Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), has promoted six senior officers to various ranks.
As reported by <a href="https://www.zbcnews.co.zw/president-mnangagwa-promotes-six-zdf-senior-officers/">ZBC News</a>, Lieutenant General David Sigauke has been promoted to the rank of Substantive General while Brigadier General Justin Mujaji has been elevated to Major General.
<figure class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 1080px"><img alt="Image" decoding="async" height="720" loading="lazy" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GK9fkquWAAAzytB?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" width="1080"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: ZBC News</figcaption></figure>
Air Marshal Elson Moyo assumed the rank of Air Chief Marshal, Major General Chris Mupande has been elevated to the rank of Lieutenant General, while Brigadier Generals Tendai Dzirutwe and Themba Mlambo, have been promoted to the rank of Major Generals.
<figure class="wp-caption alignnone" style="width: 1080px"><img alt="Image" decoding="async" height="720" loading="lazy" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/GK9fksGXsAEqSv7?format=jpg&amp;name=medium" width="1080"/><figcaption class="wp-caption-text">Image Credit: ZBC News</figcaption></figure>
Speaking at the investiture ceremony in Harare on Friday, April 12, Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, said:
<blockquote>
I would like to start by congratulating you all for the promotion. I would also want you to continue serving the nation in that positive mindset even after retirement.
Now that you are in another set-up, let this leverage you during your duties. Continue to work hard and motivate junior ranks as well.
</blockquote>
Speaking on behalf of the newly promoted officers, Air Chief Marshal Elson Moyo, said:
<blockquote>
For all of us, that was not possible without your presence. We are filled with gratefulness, gratitude, and honour. We are geared to continue to save our country diligently.
We promise the Commander-in-Chief, His Excellence President Emmerson Mnangagwa, and the nation at large that we shall deliver.
</blockquote>
President Mnangagwa promoted the senior army officers in terms of the Defence Act, which empowers him, in consultation with the Minister of Defence and Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, to reward any member for distinguished service or gallant conduct.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

President Mnangagwa Promotes Six ZDF Senior Officers

Online news publication, The NewsHawks, said they will not publish follow-up stories on the issue of three Zimbabwean army generals forced out due to corruption issues following subtle threats and direct pressure from state security agents.
On 12 February, <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/top-army-generals-fired-over-housing-corruption/">The NewsHawks reported</a> that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) had sacked three senior military commanders at the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) over a multi-million-dollar hard currency housing corruption scandal.
Citing high-level sources, The NewsHawks reported that the ZNA commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe recently dismissed three commanders namely ZNA chief-of-staff (quartermaster) Major-General Hlanganani Dube, Major-General Paul Chima (ZDF inspector-general) and Major-General John Mupande, the director-general of policy, public relations and international affairs at the ministry of Defence.
In <a href="https://x.com/NewsHawksLive/status/1759787067842703619?s=20">an editorial on Tuesday</a>, 20 February, the publication said since last week, the military has held several meetings to deal with the exclusive coverage of the story which culminated in the issuing of a statement, saying the matter is currently under investigation. It reads in part:
<blockquote>
After that, The NewsHawks was informed by top Defence House impeccable sources the issue has raised serious concerns and alerts in terms of the gravity of the substance and sourcing. Security is investigating the journalists who covered the story: the bottom line is the military wants to know the sources of the story.
As a result, The NewsHawks journalists have now been put under surveillance, especially News Editor Owen Gagare, in a move which has a chilling effect on media freedom and journalism practice.
In order to protect the safety and wellbeing of reporters, The NewsHawks has now removed its reporters from the story with immediate effect and will not carry follow-ups, including the ones already processed for this week.
The stories will be pulled out of the latest edition coming out later today indefinitely.
Usually, The NewsHawks would dig in and persist undeterred, but given the clear and present danger to the safety of its reporters, the story has to be frozen. So it has been put on ice indefinitely.
As we say in journalism, in the final analysis, there is no story worth dying for!
However, courage in journalism is the refusal to be silenced. We are not being silenced, but forced to make some strategic decisions or choices to secure the safety of our reporters.
Self-censorship and silence are not an option in investigative journalism, yet necessary if only to ensure journalists’ safety and well-being, at least for the time being.
This has happened before as pointed out at the top and we handled the situation like this.
Previously, a NewsHawks senior journalist Bernard Mpofu was forced out of his stories and his home by state security agents who hunted him down to hound him out of the security beat of coverage.
He had written several stories, but what particularly invited problems for NewsHawks and him was President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s helicopter crash exclusive story in August 2021.
Mpofu was run out of town – literally – over the story and permanently left his home, amid contemplation to leave the country.
However, NewsHawks was forced to drop the story to secure his safety. Unfortunately, his sources were tracked down and removed from their posts amid internal punishment…
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The NewsHawks Freezes Exclusive Military Story Due To Threats From State Security Agents

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) has reportedly sacked three senior military commanders at the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) over a multi-million-dollar hard currency housing corruption scandal.
Citing high-level sources, <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/top-army-generals-fired-over-housing-corruption/">The NewsHawks</a> reported that the ZNA commander Lieutenant-General Anselem Sanyatwe recently dismissed three commanders namely ZNA chief-of-staff (quartermaster) Major-General Hlanganani Dube, Major-General Paul Chima (ZDF inspector-general) and Major-General John Mupande, the director-general of policy, public relations and international affairs at the ministry of Defence. Said a source:
<blockquote>
The three major generals, Dube, Chima and Mupande, were all but dismissed; they were put in the pool department after an intervention by ZDF commander General Phillip Valerio to manage the housing scandal and their exit properly. So all of them are going, but they will leave at the end of March.
Sanyatwe acted swiftly and ruthlessly against them after they were caught buying properties and inflating the purchase prices, renovations and allocating themselves houses well above their pay grade.
The corruption involves amounts ranging between US$400 000 to US$4 million. They bought houses for themselves and colleagues at inflated prices for private gain.
This involves several transactions, for instance, one for US$1.8 million, another for US$2 million and the other for US$4 million. However, there were many other transactions.
</blockquote>
Another source was quoted as saying the houses in question, which are said to be in Greystone Park suburb in Harare, were repossessed and turned into guest houses. Said the source:
<blockquote>
They have been booted out and sent to the pool. However, very soon they will go because due process is currently underway.
The houses that were acquired corruptly have been repossessed immediately and turned into guest houses. The houses in question are in Greystone Park suburb in Harare.
The new ZNA commander is fighting corruption within the army, but his action is also motivated by his own grievances or grudges.
When he was removed from the army in 2019 and posted to Tanzania as ambassador, the affected generals, especially Dube, refused to buy him a house.
He was told he was out of the system and did not deserve a house. So he is fighting back, now that he is their boss.
But then Sanyatwe is not sparing anyone involved in corrupt activities, which shows he is genuine.
Even Chima, who was his best friend and his best man at his wedding in August 2022, is not being spared. He is taking army protocols back on line.
Manje manje (soon) Chima will go as well. There is so much corruption in the army to the extent that suppliers are sometimes paid for goods that were not delivered.
In the case of houses, the limits were US$400 000 [just like ministers, deputy ministers, MPs and judges have their own limits on monies they get from government — which means public funds], but others were given over US$4 million for a house. This scandal involved millions of United States dollars.
</blockquote>
The NewsHawks quoted another source as saying there is rampant corruption within the military. Said the source:
<blockquote>
There is a lot of corruption in the army. The only reason the military appears less corrupt to other state institutions is that it is less scrutinised and most of its operations and procurements are clandestine.
For instance, remember that Dube was previously accused of having a hand in the theft of 30 tonnes of beef meant for the military’s Recruitment Training Depot in Mbalabala, Matabeleland South.
He allegedly diverted the meat to butcheries where it was sold before the money disappeared into private pockets.
Allegations were that a driver was sent to deliver 30 tonnes of meat to the training school in Mbalabala, but brought a delivery note and invoice without offloading the meat.
These things show that there is corruption within the military. Now it’s the housing scandal, which is far more serious than previously reported cases of corruption.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Three Top Army Generals Fired Over Housing Corruption | Report

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reportedly fired several high-ranking members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) for allegedly failing to control their subordinates who walked out on him during the handover of military equipment by the Chinese government last week.
According to NewsDay, several low-ranking army officers who were seated in the open abandoned the event and sought shelter on buses following heavy rainfall while Mnangagwa was speaking.
The President, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, was speaking during the handover ceremony at Inkomo Mechanised Brigade, a few kilometres outside Harare.
NewsDay reported sources as saying regimental sergeant majors from the Parachute Regiment, Special Air Services and Mechanised Brigade were fired.
The officer commanding Inkomo Barracks Mechanised Brigade was reportedly demoted, while several Majors were transferred and pending court-martial for failing to control their troops. Said a source:
<blockquote>
During President Mnangagwa’s speech, a heavy downpour caused troops seated in the open to scramble for cover on a bus.
This was interpreted as disrespect towards the Commander-in-Chief and frankly, quite embarrassing.
Last week, a flash message notified regimental sergeant majors of their dismissal due to their inability to command their troops.
Confusion has arisen as some dismissed individuals have reported for duty.
The abruptness and severity of these dismissals have unsettled many within the ZDF.
The lack of clarity surrounding the specific charges has fuelled frustration and confusion.
</blockquote>
Contacted for comment by NewsDay yesterday, ZDF spokesperson Colonel Alphios Makotore said he would respond via email. He was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
I will email you our response. I saw your message and we are processing it.
</blockquote>
However, Makotore had not responded to the questions by the time the story was published.
The dismissals have reportedly caused discontent and low morale within the military.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mnangagwa Dismisses Top Soldiers | Report

CCC has commended the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) for safeguarding the country’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity as well as offering assistance to the civilian authority in times of need over the past 43 years.
In a statement to mark the 2023 Defence Forces’ Day on 15 August, CCC National Spokesperson, Fadzayi Mahere, noted that the country’s military has supported the civilian authority in saving lives by delivering humanitarian aid in times of crisis such as in the immediate aftermath of Cyclone Idai.
CCC, however, urged ZDF to serve “the interests of all Zimbabweans by fully complying with [its] constitutional obligation to respect the lives and dignity of the people in the execution of their duties.”
Mahere said if CCC wins the upcoming general elections, the military will never be used to curtail the rights and freedoms of citizens. Read the statement below:
<blockquote>
Today, we join the nation in commemorating 43 years since the Zimbabwe Defence Forces came into being.
The constitutionally-defined roles of the Defence Forces are to protect Zimbabwe’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, to partake in the design of our shared regional security architecture, to play a role in the preservation of international stability and peace and to offer assistance to the civilian authority in times of need.
Our Defence Forces have distinguished themselves in many of their constitutionally-defined roles. For 43 years, they have safeguarded Zimbabwe’s independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
We take pride in their sterling performances in various peacekeeping missions in Africa and the role they continue to play in aiding the civilian authority to save lives, deliver humanitarian aid and spearhead emergency reconstruction as they did in 2019 in the wake of Cyclone Idai.
However, the Defence Forces’ 43 years of service have been undermined by partisan politics. We note with particular sadness the attempt to poison and politicize the Defence Forces for partisan purposes and repression.
On this day of commemoration, we call on the Defence Forces to remember their constitutional mandate to the people of Zimbabwe.
We ask that they act in a manner that serves the interests of all Zimbabweans by fully complying with their constitutional obligation to respect the lives and dignity of the people in the execution of their duties.
In line with the Constitution, we demand the protection of citizens’ rights and freedoms by the Defence Forces. Our security services must protect not threaten citizens.
The democratic expression of citizens must be safeguarded. We reiterate our call for a Defence Force for everyone.
Under the incoming Citizen Government, weapons and arms of war will never be deployed to support a political party’s partisan interests or impede the citizens’ right to demonstrate peacefully.
Instead, our Defence Forces will support collective national interests taking due cognisance of the fundamental rights and diversity of the citizenry.
The professional standing of the Defence Forces will not be interfered with. The Defence Forces will be given the space to serve the people as prescribed by law.
We will improve the conditions of service of rank and file soldiers. They deserve to earn a living USD wage and conditions of service befitting of the important constitutional role they are mandated to play in our society.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Soldiers Deserve USD Living Wage", CCC Commemorates Defence Forces Day

The Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa recently promoted 20 lieutenant colonels to the rank of substantive colonel with effect from 09 November 2022.
He also promoted 26 majors to substantive lieutenant colonels with effect from 23 November 2022.
The promotions were made in terms of Section 15 (1) (b) of the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02).
The newly promoted colonels and lieutenant colonels were conferred with their at separate investiture ceremonies held at Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks (formerly King George VI Barracks) on Wednesday 30 November 2022.
The Chief of Staff Administration Staff Major General Matatu officiated at the conferment ceremony for the colonels.
Brigadier General Staff, Brigadier General Steven Gwekwerere presided over the conferment of new ranks to the lieutenant colonels.
The promoted Colonels are Charles Mutizhe, July Badza, Jabulisa Edward Sibanda, Michael Fatini, Daniel Musa Gandiwa, Regis Mangezi, Fungai Mapaya, Aaron Moyo, Caroline Hunidzarira, Andrew Kabaira, Hwami Vengesai, Arnold Sandalamu, Annanias Hovhiyo Mutati, Muchengeti Chabata, Kenosi Safenyang Mhlanga, Vengai Musanga, Siwinile Tauya, Ntokoziso Moyo, Isheunesu Shephard Maromo and Diana Chakapfava.
The promoted majors are Sifundiso Ndhlovu, Tasunungurwa Muchinapaya, Archimedes Sibiya, Wise Gatsi, Tariro Masiiwa, Mathias Gadu, Timothy Nyahwema, Beverly Mandaza, Lawrance Sobha, Silas Nyawiri, Sydney Chifamba, Philip Tafumanei Vumba, Tapiwa Makaya, Furirwai Chikungwa, Wilbert Fana Mutomba, Donald Madhongo, Stephen Mushunje, Wellington Mutsambi, Timothy Tazvitya, Tinovimbanashe Simon Chabvepi, Ranganai Muzeza, Gilbert Ncube, Brian Magagula, Innocent Dube, Nobuhle Siwela and Smile Nkomo. | <a href="https://zbcnews.co.zw/2022/11/30/president-mnangagwa-promotes-colonels-lieutenant-colonels/">ZBC News</a>

President Mnangagwa Promotes 20 Colonels, 26 Lieutenant Colonels

Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) commander, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, is visiting South Africa as a guest of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF).
The SANDF reported that Sibanda and his delegation were being hosted by SANDF Chief, General Rudzani Maphwanya. A statement released by SANDF on Tuesday, 25 October reads:
<blockquote>
The Chief of the South African National Defence Force, General Rudzani Maphwanya​ is hosting the Chief General of Zimbabwe Philip Valerio Sibanda and his delegations, at the Armscor Sports Ground in Pretoria, where the parade was taking place when welcoming the guests.
The main aim of the General’s visit is to strengthen the existing cooperation between the two countries Zimbabwe and South Africa.
The Generals and the delegates enjoyed the beautiful sounds of trumpets, drums, and saxophones, as the welcoming parade was taking place.
They then later proceeded to the headquarters at Huvo conference room where the meeting was taking place.
After lunch and exchanging of gifts, General Maphwanya ​and his guests proceeded to have dinner together.
In his speech, he highlighted that the evening is about breaking bread and reminiscing about Africans and celebrating being one.
</blockquote>

ZDF Commander In South Africa For Meetings With Counterpart

The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is underfunded and this has negatively affected the ability of the army to carry out its mandate.
This was said by the Minister of Defence and War Veterans Affairs Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri while making a presentation at the 2023 Parliament pre-budget seminar in Harare on Monday, 24 October.
Muchinguri-Kashiri revealed that the army is not able to keep all personnel in the barracks or provide them with basics such as food and uniforms. She said:
<blockquote>
Let’s invest in our defence forces. My ministry is facing a lot of challenges, and we have inadequate accommodation to keep our forces in the barracks.
If we are adequately provided for, I can assure the nation that we will keep ourselves in the barracks.
What we see in the current situation is that our forces are renting accommodation in the townships, and they are often given names because of inadequate and indecent accommodation — let alone transport, which they also hire.
They are insulted on a daily basis. They sometimes go without food and even uniforms, and these are constitutional requirements.
Their food items have been reduced. Sometimes they have only sadza and beans. This is a serious situation we are faced with.
My fear is that these are young people who sacrifice to create this conducive environment for us to enjoy peace. We appeal for funding from you.
</blockquote>
However, since independence in 1980, the government has prioritised the Defence ministry in budget allocations.
The army is not only one of the top three ministries which always receives the biggest allocation from the Treasury over the years but also runs its own private companies that generate revenue. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200002532/hunger-stalks-army-barracks">NewsDay</a>

Zimbabwe Defence Forces Underfunded, Says Muchinguri-Kashiri

The government is battling to plug a massive backlog of personal service vehicles for senior security officers amid worsening working conditions in the security sector, The NewsHawks report.
According to the publication, senior officers in the military, police and prison service who are entitled to service vehicles have been on the waiting list for close to three years without receiving the vehicles.
The senior officers are entitled to single-cab trucks such as Ford Rangers.
The NewsHawks reported sources saying nearly 300 lieutenant-colonels who were promoted from 2018 to date have not received their vehicles.
Further, more than 50 superintendents in the police and prison service who were promoted to the rank of chief superintendent are yet to take delivery of the vehicles. A security source is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>As it stands, only battalion commanders in the case of colonels got first preference upon their promotion. For police officers, dispols (officer commanding district) also enjoyed this preferential treatment because Treasury coffers appear to be depleted. It’s been three years since newly promoted officers got new vehicles.</blockquote>
The publication however said it couldn’t get responses for questions sent to Vincent Hungwe, chairperson of the Public Service Commission, Defence Forces Service Commission, Police Service Commission and Prison and Correctional Service Commission, at the time of going to print.
<h4>More: <a href="https://thenewshawks.com/rumbles-of-discontent-as-govt-fails-to-buy-security-vehicles/?fbclid=IwAR04S8AM5d_jZYPzGaP0bLK1TV-XShyZQRszEfJ0pCPm9kXtNcc1Fh1S51w">The NewsHawks</a></h4>

Govt Fails To Buy Vehicles For Army, Police Bosses

A former military commander, Brigadier-General Collin Moyo (Retired), has died.
Brig-Gen Moyo, whose Chimurenga name was Rodwell Nyika, died at the age of 66 on Friday morning at Haematology Centre, Harare after a short illness.
He had retired from the army in 1997 and at the time of his death, he was a director in the Ministry of Defence and Welfare of War Veterans responsible for Investigations, Vetting and Inspectorate.
In a statement on Friday night, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) confirmed Brig-Gen Moyo’s death describing him as a true revolutionary who steadfastly defended the country’s sovereignty. The statement read in part:
<blockquote>He committed his whole life to serve Zimbabwe and fought to defend her interests.
He made valuable contributions to regional peace and security.
Above all, he remained focused and steadfast in the face of neo-colonial machinations by Britain and her allies.</blockquote>
Brig-Gen Moyo is said to have trained the likes of Commander Defence Forces General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Major General Diye, Major General N. Dube, Lieutenant General S.B Moyo (Rtd), Major General Chiramba among others.
Funeral arrangements are still to be finalised.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/top-army-general-dies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Herald</a></h4>

Retired Top Army General Dies

While delivering his virtual Defense Forces Day message President Mnangagwa highly praised the ZDF and called them all sorts of colourful names among them highly professional, peaceful, loyal, committed and dedicated, New Zimbabwe reports. Delivering the speech President Mnangagwa said:
<blockquote>This occasion is happening on the backdrop of successive accomplishments by our defence forces to defend our motherland Zimbabwe from detractors, divisive elements and enemies,” he said.
The commemorations which we are holding this year under the theme, ‘ZDF: Celebrating 40 Years of Excellent Service to the People,’ are taking place under yet another wave of aggression manifesting through illegal sanctions, hostile anti-Zimbabwe propaganda, mounted on social media platforms and other forms of asymmetrical warfare meant to break unity within our forces.
In executing its constitutional mandate, the ZDF has since its formation acquitted itself with distinction and high professionalism and for this they deserve a big compliment. Zimbabwe has continued to enjoy peace largely attributable to the ZDF’s vigilance, loyalty, commitment and dedication to their constitutional obligation of defending the country and its people.</blockquote>
The president could not, however, resist to take a jab at the opposition in the message and thanked the army for defending his administration against planned protests which have put Zimbabwe on the international spotlight for violating human rights and said:
<blockquote>Thank you once again for remaining calm and peaceful in the wake of some misguided calls for violent protests and demonstrations by opposition elements with support from foreign and civil society supporters and backers.</blockquote>
The president’s heap of praise to the ZDF comes on the backdrop of a massive public outcry over human rights abuses emanating from how security forces threatened, arrested, abducted and tortured would-be protestors, protest organisers and protestors. The outcry has drawn the attention of the international community and AU, which has also prompted South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa to send an envoy to Zimbabwe to discuss the issue of human rights abuses with the government and opposition parties.
More: <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/mnangagwa-heaps-praises-on-professional-peaceful-army/">New Zimbabwe </a>

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