GOVERNMENT says it is investing in specialised training, modern technologies and regional cooperation initiatives to strengthen the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ (ZDF’s) capacity to respond to evolving threats.
Defence minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri said the measures are expected to ensure that the ZDFs remain prepared to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Muchinguri-Kashiri said this ahead of this year’s 46th Defence Forces Day commemorations.
The commemorations will be held next Tuesday at Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
Similar celebrations will take place in all 10 provinces under the leadership of ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
Muchinguri-Kashiri said the ZDF’s role had evolved beyond traditional national defence responsibilities, with the institution increasingly contributing to socio-economic development and humanitarian programmes.
She said the defence forces continued to play a critical role in disaster response, infrastructure development, healthcare, humanitarian assistance, landmine clearance and international peacekeeping operations.
The minister also commended serving and retired members of the defence forces, together with their families, for their dedication and sacrifices in serving the nation.
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She said continuous training, military education and adherence to professional standards remained central to maintaining an effective and disciplined defence force.
“Professionalism is reinforced through continuous training, military education, and strict adherence to the regulatory framework,” she said.
She added that international military cooperation remained important in strengthening professional standards through the exchange of expertise and experiences.
She also said the ZDF is enhancing its preparedness to respond to emerging security threats, including cybercrime, terrorism, organised crime and climate-related disasters.
As part of the afternoon programme, a football match pitting a ZDF select side against the Namibian Defence Forces team will be played at Rufaro Stadium.
The Defence Day celebrations follow the annual ZDF community assistance week, which runs from August 3 to 7 and demonstrates the military’s wider contribution to communities.
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