499 Zimbabwe National Army recruits graduate

The Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi, yesterday officiated at the pass-out parade of 499 army recruits at Imbizo Barracks on the outskirts of Bulawayo, where he underscored the importance of discipline and diligence in national service.

The recruits - 373 males and 126 females - completed eight months of intensive military training at the Recruit Training Depot Imbizo Barracks. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, traditional leaders and relatives of the graduating soldiers.

In his keynote address, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi urged the new soldiers to uphold the army's long-standing values.

"The Zimbabwe National Army has a rich history of professionalism and excellence. I challenge you to continue with that fine rich legacy so that you also pass it to the next generation," he said.

"You must abide by the oath you have taken before us. We don't tolerate absenteeism without permission, stealing, armed robberies and drug abuse in the army."

He reminded the recruits that they had voluntarily chosen military service and were expected to live exemplary lives in line with the army's strict code of conduct.

"You came on your own, no one forced you, and you said I beg to apply. So, show that you volunteered to join the army. We have laws, we have expectations from you as much as you have expectations from us. We must walk together to do the job we were given by the nation," he said.

Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said the recruitment process covered all parts of the country in line with President Emmerson Mnangagwa's mantra of leaving no one and no place behind.

He revealed that the army had received an overwhelming number of applications and had to screen candidates to meet its required intake.

"We started with 500 recruits in June 2025. Today 499 are graduating after one male failed. I congratulate you ladies for showing tenacity as all of you finished the course. We are pushing to reach 30 percent of the female recruits as demanded by our minister," he said.

The ZNA Commander reiterated that discipline remains central to army operations and encouraged the recruits to maintain physical fitness to effectively defend the country and its interests.

"The army has a hierarchy and this must be respected at every level. Disobedience, insubordination and mutiny is not allowed. You must follow commands, that is how the army runs. We thank the trainers who walked with you throughout this training.

"We also thank our traditional leaders for giving us the recruits. We must continue with the good working relationship," he said.

Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi also expressed gratitude to parents and corporate partners for supporting the army and described the parade as impressive.

"This was a well-turned out parade, very well synchronised and being my first as commander I have also learnt a lot.

"So, I appreciate you for training me as a commander. I thank you all for the salute you gave me," he said.

Among the top three graduating recruits was Mudimba Bululani, who emerged second runner-up and received a shield and US$1 000. Ruvarashe Adelaide Chikomo was first runner-up and received a shield and US$1 500, while Gideon Kanyongo was named best recruit, walking away with a shield, US$2 000 prize money and an immediate promotion.

Traditional leaders who attended the event included Chief Sigola from Siphezini, Chief Ndondo from Mbembesi and Chief Deli from Umguza.