Story by Peter Chivhima
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces says achieving a landmine-free status by 2025 remains a priority, with over 290 square kilometres of deadly mines having been cleared countrywide.
Staring defeat, the Ian Smith-led regime laid extensive minefields along Zimbabwe’s borders in a desperate bid to prevent recruits from joining the liberation struggle.
Four decades after independence, unfenced minefields continue to devastate Zimbabwe, claiming over 1 000 human lives and more than one hundred thousand cattle.
In an interview with ZBC News ahead of Heroes and Defence Forces Day commemorations, Commander Zimbabwe National Army Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe assured the nation that attaining a land mine free status by 2025 is on course.
“In terms of demining, the army has collaborated with other international demining partners. It is the responsibility of the army to remove landmines to ensure a landmine-free Zimbabwe. These landmines, take note, are remnants of the protracted liberation struggle. At present, I am glad to say so far, 639 anti-personal mines were removed and destroyed in situ,” he said.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces and its demining partners have made significant strides, clearing over 290 square kilometres of deadly mines across the country.
Lieutenant General Sanyatwe also noted the ZNA is scaling up its civil-military relations, “We will continue to work hand in hand with civilian institutes especially during this times of peace.”
As part of the ZDF Community Assistance Week, several life-changing projects are being handed over to various communities countrywide.
