Story by Peter Chivhima
HARARE – THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) says it will continue to engage in military exchange programmes with other defence forces from the region and beyond to stay abreast of developments in the military domain.
This was emphasised during the graduation ceremony of Course Number 82 at the Zimbabwe Staff College in Harare on Friday.
The event was graced by Brigadier General (Retired) Levy Mayihlome, the Deputy Minister of Defence, who represented the Minister of Defence, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Minister, Brigadier General (Rtd) Mayihlome underscored the strategic value of involving students from allied nations, noting that regional and cross-border military engagements remain essential in confronting shared security threats.
“The involvement of allied students on this course is a deliberate effort to strengthen regional defence and security cooperation, which is vital in enhancing the interoperability of our forces. In March this year, we hosted the 34th Zimbabwe-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security in Victoria Falls, focusing on consolidating our bilateral defence relations. The ZDF will continue to engage in military exchange programmes with regional and international defence forces to remain abreast of developments in the military domain.”
The 21-week course brought together 47 officers drawn from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and allied countries, including Malawi and Botswana. The programme was designed to equip officers with critical leadership competencies, strategic planning skills, and a broader understanding of modern military operations.
Graduands described the training as both transformational and timely.
“We have learnt a lot from this course, and it has equipped us with the requisite skills that will enable us to effectively defend our territories and contribute meaningfully to regional and international security efforts,” Captain Tkuondwa Dzekedzeke of the Malawi Defence Forces remarked.
“Training in Zimbabwe has been enriching and enlightening. The knowledge and skills we’ve gained here are invaluable, and we are confident that we will apply them effectively upon returning home,” Major Atamelang Vivian Kengwaketse of the Botswana Defence Forces added.
“This training has broadened our understanding of military operations and deepened the bonds of cooperation among our nations. We are prepared to apply these lessons for the betterment of our country’s security,” Captain Kudakwashe Nyamututa of the ZDF also shared his perspective.
The graduation ceremony was attended by Service Chiefs, senior ZDF officers, and delegates from partner defence forces, reflecting the deepening ties between Zimbabwe and its regional allies in building a united, capable and responsive defence community.
