Sanctions are a threat to national security

THE ZNA (Zimbabwe National Army) has described the West's economic sanctions regime as a threat to national security given the  interconnectedness of economic prosperity and security.

One Brigade Commander Brigadier General Thomas Moyo said the ZNA would continue providing military aid to civilian communities for the development of the nation.

Brig Gen Moyo was speaking during the 30th Commando Anniversary celebrations in Harare yesterday.
"Shortages of kit and equipment that we are experiencing can be attributed to the fiscal challenges brought about by these illegal sanctions," he said.

"However, despite these challenges every effort is being made to ensure that you are provided with adequate resources to enable you to carry out your tasks proficiently."

He urged the uniformed forces to start income generating projects to bust the sanctions.

"Our experiences during this period of peace have provided us with a heightened appreciation on the need to be proactive than reactive," he said.

Brig Gen Moyo hailed members of the uniformed forces for ensuring peace in Africa through their professionalism and discipline.

Brig-Gen Moyo said the peace prevailing in the region could not have been possible without the contribution of the ZNA.

He singled out Mozambique and the DRC among the countries that received "immense" assistance from the ZNA during war times.

"The history of commandos is an illustrious one. In countless challenges to your courage and resourcefulness, you have served with distinction, pride and honour in all the campaigns the ZNA has participated in," he said.

In all in these campaigns, Brig-Gen Moyo said the soldiers committed themselves to duty without concern for personal comfort.