Zimbabwean Major-General promoted on retirement

Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Commander General Emmanuel Matatu on Tuesday presided over the promotion of Brigadier General Tom Jefter Munongwa to the rank of Major General upon his retirement, in recognition of his long and distinguished military service.

Speaking at the ceremony, Gen Matatu highlighted Major General Munongwa's pivotal role in the Corps of Engineers since the formation of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, as well as his contributions to the institution's growth and his representation of Zimbabwe abroad.

"It is my pleasure this afternoon to preside over this ceremony where I have just conferred the rank and status of Major-General Tom Munongwa," Gen Matatu said.

"Major General Munongwa has served the Zimbabwe Defence Forces from its inception in the corps of engineers, seen its evolution and contributed immensely to its development."

Gen Matatu praised Munongwa's career as exemplary, saying the promotion was well deserved and urging him to remain connected to the defence forces even in retirement.

"You have had a very illustrious career, Major-General. You deserve the package, you deserve the promotion," he said.

"You retire and you go into your retirement, please do not isolate yourself from the organisation."

He added that the ZDF would always remain Munongwa's home, noting that he had dedicated the greater part of his life to serving the nation both before and after independence.

"This is your home, you spent the majority of your life serving the nation," Gen Matatu said.

"Finally, Major General, let me formally say to you congratulations, well done. We will miss you as you go into your retirement."

In his response, Major General Munongwa expressed gratitude for the honour, attributing his promotion to the mentorship, guidance and support he received from his commanders throughout his career.

"It is with great pleasure that I make this response to your remarks on this historic occasion in my life and in my career," he said.

"It is basically through your support, your guidance, your mentorship and belief in my abilities that culminated into this day's recognition."

He also reflected on his long military journey, acknowledging the challenges he faced and crediting divine guidance for sustaining him.

"I would also like to thank the Lord Almighty for this elevation which has brought me up to this level in my career," Munongwa said.

"My journey has been long, filled with many lessons, challenges and experiences."

He further expressed appreciation for the support of his family, particularly his wife.

"My appreciation would not be complete without acknowledging the incredible support and encouragement from my dear loving wife, together with the rest of my family," he said.

The ceremony marked the culmination of a career that has spanned decades of service to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the nation.