Story by Peter Chivhima
THE Air Force of Zimbabwe has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the professional capacity of its personnel through continuous training, as the defence force intensifies efforts to remain aligned with evolving regional security demands.
This comes as 45 non-commissioned officers graduated after completing a specialised military course at Manyame Air Force Base on Wednesday, in a ceremony that underscored the growing emphasis on skills development and interoperability within the security sector.
The training programme brought together officers from the Air Force of Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Republic Police, and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, alongside participants from allied nations, reflecting deepening regional cooperation in defence training.
Participants said the course enhanced coordination, discipline and operational cohesion among Southern African Development Community member states.
“The training was quite interesting and beneficial. It allowed me to interact with fellow students from allied countries. We had participants from Malawi, Tanzania, and, of course, Zimbabwe, as well as my fellow Zambians. It truly felt like a second home. The skills we have gained have given us a common platform as Southern African Development Community member states. When we are deployed on operations involving different countries, it will now be much easier for us to interact, coordinate, and come up with a common solution,” Zambia Air Force Warrant Officer Class One Eberty Berthias Zilombo said.
Assistant Inspector Rangarirai Nyamapanga said the training reinforced professionalism and inter-agency cooperation.
“This training has taught us the importance of having good discipline and maintaining a positive character. We were also trained on professionalism. In addition, we attended joint sessions involving the military and other security institutions. We were taught how to collaborate with sister organisations and how to work together effectively, so that operations can be carried out smoothly and successfully,” he said.
Overall Best Student Flight Sergeant Trymore Madongorere said the course had strengthened leadership and management capacity.
“One key lesson I have learnt is to always be true to yourself, remain disciplined, and stay focused on self-development. Whatever you do, you must do it with commitment and dedication. I believe my organisation is going to benefit a lot from this training because it has reoriented me into becoming a better manager and leader. I will apply the knowledge and skills I gained here at the School of Academic Staff Training to improve performance within my department. I will also share what I have learnt with my colleagues and those I will be working with, so that we can grow together as an organisation,” he said.
Guest of Honour, Air Force of Zimbabwe Chief of Staff Operations Air Vice Marshal Biltim Chingono, said continuous training remains central to building a disciplined and responsive force capable of meeting modern security challenges.
“Training is the bedrock of any organisation, especially within the defence forces. The Air Force of Zimbabwe is no exception, and we are here to sharpen the skills of our officers and men. That is why we conduct such courses. It is always good to have a cross-pollination of ideas. Besides that, as SADC, the Southern African Development Community, we need to operate together. We are one team. Whenever one of us is in need, we must assist each other. Therefore, interoperability becomes key, both in training and during operations,” he said.
The Air Force of Zimbabwe said peacetime remains a critical period for enhancing skills to ensure personnel remain competitive and aligned with regional counterparts.
The graduation highlights ongoing efforts to professionalise Zimbabwe’s security services through structured training, regional collaboration and knowledge exchange.
