Mnangagwa orders rapid modernisation of Zimbabwe Defence Forces

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has called for the rapid modernisation of Zimbabwe's defence systems and capabilities, saying the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) must evolve and adapt to emerging security threats while supporting national development.

Mnangagwa, who is Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, made the remarks during the 46th anniversary of Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day at Rufaro Stadium in Harare on Tuesday.

The commemorations were held under the theme "Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030."

The President said the modernisation drive was necessary against the backdrop of growing global security challenges and an increasingly unpredictable international environment.

"In the face of the complex security threats and challenges, Zimbabwe is accordingly expediting the modernisation of defence systems and capabilities," Mnangagwa said.

He said the government's objective was to safeguard peace and stability while creating a security architecture capable of supporting the country's development agenda and Vision 2030.

"Our goal is to safeguard peace, stability and the new national development trajectory, through a realigned security architecture that reinforces progress and realisation of Vision 2030," he said.

Mnangagwa urged the military to place greater emphasis on combat readiness, efficiency, coordination, science and technology while preserving the traditional character and ethos of the armed forces.

"Our focus is consolidating practical defence mechanisms to enhance combat effectiveness and readiness. Greater attention is now on improving coordination, increasing efficiency as well as deploying science and technology, while keeping the fundamental character and ethos of our military, untouched," he said.

He challenged senior military officers to create an environment that encourages innovation and the development of more efficient defence systems.

The President also called for reforms in military training, saying the ZDF should incorporate emerging technologies and new approaches into its training programmes.

"My Government stands ready to increase support to the various categories of the training facilities within the ZDF. On its part, the military should boldly reconfigure training models and methodologies in a manner that optimises the application of science and technology," he said.

Mnangagwa specifically called for greater attention to cybersecurity and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on defence and national security.

He said relevant military units should be strengthened or established where necessary to improve the country's ability to respond to contemporary security threats.

The President also reaffirmed the government's commitment to developing a domestic defence industry driven by science and technology.

"Under my leadership, independence, self-reliance and sovereignty, which extends to all aspects, are key objectives of the Second Republic," he said.

He said developing domestic defence capabilities was important for protecting national sovereignty and reducing reliance on external sources.

Beyond its traditional security role, Mnangagwa praised the ZDF for contributing to national food security through its institutional farms.

He also highlighted the military's involvement in community development, including the construction of schools and health infrastructure in areas such as Rushinga, Buhera, Gokwe, Mutasa North and Harare.

The President also commended the ZDF for conducting medical outreach programmes in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.

He said cooperation between the military, police and other security agencies had strengthened border security under the government's Whole of Government and Society Approach.

"Combined deployment along our borders with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique has fostered public security, while facilitating safe movement of people and efficient trade," he said.

Mnangagwa further praised the ZDF's mine-clearance operations, saying the removal of landmines had allowed previously inaccessible areas to be returned to productive use.

He said government would continue mobilising resources to achieve a mine-free Zimbabwe in line with its obligations under the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty.

The President expressed gratitude to international partners supporting the country's mine-clearance programme, including the United Nations Development Programme, Norwegian People's Aid, the Hazardous Area Life Support Organisation and the Mine Advisory Group.

He commended the ZDF's National Mine Clearance Unit for expanding its capacity and expertise.

Mnangagwa also urged members of the armed forces to maintain high standards of discipline and professionalism.

"I commend members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces for remaining steadfast, loyal, patriotic, disciplined and exemplary in the execution of their mandate," he said.

"The nation is proud of you. Sustain the momentum and keep up the good work that has earned you the status of a dependable, professional and highly reputable Force. We salute you."

The Defence Forces Day celebrations were attended by First Lady Auxillia Mnangagwa, Vice-Presidents Constantino Chiwenga and Kembo Mohadi, Cabinet ministers, service chiefs, diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe and senior government officials.