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Nqobile Tshili, Chronicle Reporter 

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has started training officers on security and protocol matters as the country plays host to various international gatherings. 

Addressing security and protocol officers at the end of a three-day workshop held at the ZRP Ntabazinduna Training Depot, Officer Commanding Bulawayo province Commissioner Patton Mbangwa yesterday said police officers should be up to date with ever changing expectations on protocol and security of high-level delegates.

A total of 57 protocol and security officers from Bulawayo, Matabeleland North and Matabeleland South attended the workshop.

“During the deliberations you explored the current global capacity gaps and challenges posed on security and protocol services if not properly done. The discussions reflected on the need for the organisation to equip officers and members with requisite knowledge, skills and attitudes in providing security and protocol services.

“ I would like to emphasise on the need to comply with the standards and specifications of the security and protocol services to ensure that delegates are provided with maximum protection,” said Comm Mbangwa.

He said the training will better prepare officers as the country plays host to various international delegates among them the thousands who are attending the 6th Session of the Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development (ARFSD) underway in Victoria Falls. 

Comm Mbangwa said there is also need for protocol and security officers in various Government departments to collaborate to effectively deliver on their duties.

He said security and protocol officers serve as ambassadors not just for the organisation but the country at large.

Comm Mbangwa expressed gratitude to police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga for facilitating resources for the workshop to be conducted. 

“It is not a secret that resources are scarce across departments in the country and bringing this multitude of people together for this course is a milestone,” said Comm Mbangwa. — @nqotshili