Story by Providence Maraneli
A strong call has been made for members of the security sector to take a leading role in the fight against drug and substance abuse as Zimbabwe intensifies efforts to eradicate the scourge threatening communities and national development.
The call was made this Friday during the graduation parade of more than 300 junior officers and non-commissioned officers at the Zimbabwe School of Infantry in Mbalabala, Matabeleland South Province.
After 18 weeks of rigorous military drilling, tactical training and academic instruction, 376 personnel drawn from the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) graduated in 12 instructional courses.
The colourful pass-out parade reflected discipline, precision and military excellence, underscoring the institution’s continued commitment to producing highly trained security personnel capable of safeguarding national interests.
Commandant of the Zimbabwe School of Infantry, Colonel Nuna Ncube, commended the surrounding communities for supporting the institution during the training period.
“We are grateful to the community around us for having supported us during the training. This is another milestone in our commitment to military excellence,” Colonel Ncube said.
Chief of Staff Administration in the Zimbabwe National Army, Major General Cephas Gurira, challenged the graduates to uphold discipline, professionalism and integrity in the execution of their duties.
“You should discharge your duties with due diligence, devotion, and commitment. Security organisations require members who are loyal, disciplined, and free from drug and substance abuse. We are not going to tolerate any member who takes drugs. The security sector needs members who are well-trained and dedicated to effectively and efficiently executing their duties.
“It is through these attributes that a force can succeed in all its operational undertakings. Let me warn you to desist from any forms of indiscipline that may tarnish the image of your organisations. Such activities will not be tolerated, and those found on the wrong side of the law will always be dealt with severely,” Major General Gurira said.
The graduation comes at a time when Government and security institutions are intensifying nationwide efforts to combat drug and substance abuse, particularly among youths, as part of broader measures to safeguard the country’s future workforce and social fabric.
