Story by Peter Chivhima
THE newly appointed Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, General Emmanuel Matatu, has officially handed over command of the Zimbabwe National Army to Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, at a ceremony at the Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare.
The Charles Gumbo Parade Square witnessed a remarkable display of unity, with hundreds of attendees observing as General Matatu formally passed on the leadership of the Army to Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi, marking a new chapter in the nation’s military leadership.
In handing over command and ZNA colours, General Matatu, who is now the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, urged continued unity and discipline, while Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi pledged to uphold the legacy of professionalism and patriotism that has long defined the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
“The Zimbabwe National Army has to be prepared to defend the nation as everyone looks up to us for the maintenance of peace and unity. It is my conviction that under you, the Zimbabwe National Army will move forward. Teamwork is key in achieving our goals,” he said.
“First and foremost, allow me to extend my sincere gratitude to the Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for entrusting me with the responsibility of leading this esteemed organisation. I understand the weight of this appointment, and the trust bestowed on me is a testament to the confidence that he has in my ability to hold this prestigious position. This is not only motivating but also inspires me to look into the future and work hard for the betterment of the organisation and the nation at large.
I am committed to living up to the great expectations of our great nation, Zimbabwe. I shall remain committed to upholding a high standard of loyalty, integrity, professionalism, dedication to duty, and selfless service, as we all continue with the task of defending our stability, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Zimbabwe,”Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi said.
The Minister of Defence, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, officiated as the Chief Witnessing Officer. She commended both officers for their long military service, which spans from the liberation struggle to modern-day Zimbabwe.
“It is pleasing to note that both of you have an illustrious military career that spans from the liberation struggle to independent Zimbabwe. You joined the liberation struggle at very tender ages, fought the war of liberation, and formed the Zimbabwe National Army through the integration process. Thereafter, you diligently served in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and rose through the ranks.
“Today, you are both honoured to serve as the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and Commander ZNA, respectively. You should, however, take heed that the responsibilities bestowed on you are challenging. It is you who determines the success of defending Zimbabwe’s territorial integrity, as well as shaping the future of our defence force. You are also responsible for making crucial decisions that affect the men and women in the force. Your conduct in your positions must inspire and instil confidence. Your conduct must inspire and instil confidence in those who would want to join the organisation,” she said.
Prior to his latest appointment, Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi was the ZNA Chief of Staff Administration Staff.
