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Graduate cadets vow to defend Zimbabwe's sovereignty
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The Zimbabwe Military Academy (ZMA) this Friday commissioned 202 Officer Cadets who successfully completed a gruelling 22-month military training programme, pledging their commitment to safeguard the country's territorial integrity and uphold the values of national service.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the academy in Gweru, marked the 40th Regular Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade since Zimbabwe's independence in 1980. It was a proud and emotional occasion for both the cadets and their families, as they officially transitioned from trainees to commissioned officers under the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).
Military training is globally known for its tough regimen, and the ZMA is no exception. The course began with 250 candidates, but only 202 completed the rigorous training, which tested their physical endurance, mental strength, and leadership skills.
"The course commenced training with a total of 250 candidates comprising 183 from the Zimbabwe National Army, 65 from the Air Force of Zimbabwe, and two cadets - one male and one female - from the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force," said ZMA Commandant, Brigadier General Crispen Nduku.
"Of the total enrolment, 73 were female and 177 male students. Forty-six cadets, including 27 males and 19 females, could not cope with the demanding nature of the training and dropped out, while two cadets were seconded to Mozambique for an exchange programme."
The newly commissioned officers expressed their readiness to serve and protect the nation.
"We have made it this far by the grace of God. Zimbabwe can count on us - we are ready to serve with pride and integrity," said one of the cadets.
Parents and guardians also beamed with pride as they witnessed their children's transformation into military leaders.
"I am a proud parent today. Seeing my son shake hands with the President is a moment I'll never forget. This is a first in our family," said an emotional parent.
Among the graduating class, Officer Cadet Danmore Matsenhuke was named the best overall student, recognized for his exceptional performance during training.
The parade not only showcased the cadets' discipline and readiness but also reinforced the importance of maintaining a strong and professional defence force. With more female cadets taking part in the programme, the ZMA continues to promote gender inclusivity in national security roles.
The 40th commissioning ceremony marks another milestone in Zimbabwe's efforts to build a resilient and capable military force to preserve peace, sovereignty, and development.
The commissioning ceremony, held at the academy in Gweru, marked the 40th Regular Officer Cadet Commissioning Parade since Zimbabwe's independence in 1980. It was a proud and emotional occasion for both the cadets and their families, as they officially transitioned from trainees to commissioned officers under the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF).
Military training is globally known for its tough regimen, and the ZMA is no exception. The course began with 250 candidates, but only 202 completed the rigorous training, which tested their physical endurance, mental strength, and leadership skills.
"The course commenced training with a total of 250 candidates comprising 183 from the Zimbabwe National Army, 65 from the Air Force of Zimbabwe, and two cadets - one male and one female - from the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force," said ZMA Commandant, Brigadier General Crispen Nduku.
"Of the total enrolment, 73 were female and 177 male students. Forty-six cadets, including 27 males and 19 females, could not cope with the demanding nature of the training and dropped out, while two cadets were seconded to Mozambique for an exchange programme."
The newly commissioned officers expressed their readiness to serve and protect the nation.
Parents and guardians also beamed with pride as they witnessed their children's transformation into military leaders.
"I am a proud parent today. Seeing my son shake hands with the President is a moment I'll never forget. This is a first in our family," said an emotional parent.
Among the graduating class, Officer Cadet Danmore Matsenhuke was named the best overall student, recognized for his exceptional performance during training.
The parade not only showcased the cadets' discipline and readiness but also reinforced the importance of maintaining a strong and professional defence force. With more female cadets taking part in the programme, the ZMA continues to promote gender inclusivity in national security roles.
The 40th commissioning ceremony marks another milestone in Zimbabwe's efforts to build a resilient and capable military force to preserve peace, sovereignty, and development.
Source - zbc
