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Part of ZNA graduates at 1.2 Infantry Battalion in Hwange yesterday

Leonard Ncube in Hwange
THE Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has said it will continuously develop its members through further education to inculcate the spirit of nationalism and patriotism.

Speaking at a graduation parade of 90 soldiers who completed a General Squad Drill and Small Arms Course Number 10 (04)95/17, at the 1.2 Infantry Battalion in Hwange yesterday, 1 Infantry Brigade Commander Brigadier-General Augustine Chipwere said this is in line with the army’s desire to remain highly professional.

“It is only through such military civic education programmes that we can inculcate a strong spirit of nationalism, patriotism and loyalty into ZNA members.This is a career progression course in the army in line with ZNA quest to remain a highly professional, prestigious and formidable force that values human resources development and professionalism,” he said.

Brig-Gen Chipwere said adequately trained officers, not just modern equipment, give value to any military organisation. He encouraged soldiers to continuously develop themselves through education despite challenges facing the force.

Of the 90 graduates, 13 were female and they were presented with certificates.

The inclusion of female students, Brig-Gen Chipwere said, is an indication that the ZNA embraces the policy of gender equality as it encourages women to undertake training and activities done by their male counterparts.

The course covered field craft, platoon weapons, range work, foot drill, arms drill, physical training and military civic education, which equips soldiers with an insight into the socio-political economic environment of the communities they operate in.

Brig-Gen Chipwere said the aim of the course was to equip soldiers with the requisite knowledge and skills in all aspects of drilling a squad, good discipline and employment of small arms.

“I deeply appreciate commitment of the students as all the 90 completed the course. I am impressed to note that as part of your weapons training you managed to conduct AK 47 night live firing on which most of you performed very well.

“It’s critical that as soldiers you are aware of these issues so that you remain focused. It’s prudent that you understand history, trials and tribulations of Zimbabwe in honour of living and departed heroes.  The onus lies with us to jealously guard the freedom and independence that we are enjoying,” Brig-Gen Chipwere said.

He said the ZNA had decentralised running of some of its career progression courses to formations hence the course being done at 1.2 Infantry Battalion.

Those who undertook the course are junior rank soldiers from all ZNA units countrywide.

Brig-Gen Chipwere challenged ZNA members to remain diligent and disciplined, saying discipline is the hallmark of a professional soldier.

Proceedings started with an inspection of the guard of honour as well as slow and quick marches.

Present were Commandant of the 1.2 Infantry Battalion Lieutenant Colonel Godfrey Mutsadyanga as well as chiefs Shana and Nekatambe and some heads of government departments. — @ncubeleon