Story by Tafara Chikumira
58 members of the Zimbabwe National Army were commissioned this Saturday after successfully completing basic officers military training at the Zimbabwe Military Academy in Gweru.
The officers are professionals who completed a gruelling 18 weeks training course to prepare them to understand their new assignments as military personnel.
The new officers were urged to perform their duties professionally as guided by the country’s constitution.
“Employ your key skills towards the attainment of the ZNA’s constitutional mandate and the national vision. As patriotic and professional officers always stand guided by the mantra ‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, igotongwa nevene vayo uyezve igonamatirwa nevene vayo.’
Always cherish to protect your country’s national interests, sovereignty, independence and national integrity. The military profession is a profession of service to the nation. National interests come first before self-interests,” said ZNA Commander, Lieutenant General Ansleme Sanyatwe.
The graduating officer’s parents and guardians were impressed by the achievements of their loved ones as they prepare to serve the nation.
“It’s a big day to us as we celebrate our child’s great achievements. It is always a delicate situation when your child enrolls to be with the army and the dangers associated with the training. Now that he ha managed to achieve this feat we are relieved a family,” said one of the parents.
Another added, “Today is a big day for us as a family. We have been investing in our child’s education all along and now it’s a time to celebrate as we look forward to the returns of our investment.”
The 31st basic officer’s military graduation saw 48 males and 10 females graduating after two recruits dropped out due to various reasons.
