Mnangagwa urges new military cadets to safeguard Zimbabwe

President Emmerson Mnangagwa, in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, has called on newly commissioned officers from the Zimbabwe Military Academy (ZMA) to fiercely protect the nation's independence and the solidarity shared across the Southern African region.

Speaking at the 40th Regular Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade held at the academy in Gweru, President Mnangagwa emphasized the crucial role that peace and security play in driving sustainable development both within Zimbabwe and across its borders.

He reminded the graduating cadets of the sacrifices made by liberation war heroes, urging them to uphold their legacy by remaining patriotic, professional, and loyal to the nation.

"It is my expectation that institutions such as the Zimbabwe Military Academy continue to produce well-rounded officers who honour and cherish the supreme sacrifice of our fallen heroes," said President Mnangagwa.

The President also commended the increasing participation of women in the cadet programme, describing it as a positive step toward inclusive national development and peace-building efforts.

In his address, Mnangagwa urged the ZMA to keep pace with global technological advancements by incorporating modern innovations into its training curriculum, ensuring that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) remains capable and adaptive in an evolving security landscape.

The commissioning parade marks a key milestone in the professional development of the ZDF, which continues to play a central role in safeguarding national sovereignty and contributing to regional peacekeeping efforts.