Zimbabwe Defence Forces mark 43rd anniversary

By Xinhua

HARARE: Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Tuesday presided over the national celebrations of the 43rd anniversary of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day, which are observed every second week of August.

The president applauded the men and women of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces (ZDF) for their role in defending the sovereignty and national interests of Zimbabwe and their contribution to international peace and security.

Inside the majestic National Sports Stadium in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, Zimbabweans, young and old, honored members of the uniformed forces for their diligent duty in protecting the country.

Audiences were entertained by military displays consisting of parachute drops, commando flood rescue simulation, and an iconic flyover of military aircraft over the venue.

“The theme of this year’s celebrations, – Zimbabwe Defense Forces: Creating a conducive environment for the achievement of Vision 2030 – is in recognition of the importance of a peaceful and tranquil environment for sustainable development,” the president said.

He said the ZDF remains a vital cog in the ongoing national socioeconomic modernization and development of Zimbabwe. Since its formation, the ZDF has been “a people’s force” which has effectively defended Zimbabwe, thereby guaranteeing its nationhood in the face of adversity.

“The security of our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe, as well as the unflinching patriotism, loyalty and strategic capabilities of our security sector and the Zimbabwe Defense Forces in particular, remain the cornerstone of the preservation of our independence, our unity, our peace, stability and sustainable development,” said Mnangagwa.

Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa addresses the 43rd Zimbabwe Defense Forces celebrations at the National Sports Stadium in Harare, Zimbabwe, Aug. 15, 2023. (Photo by Shaun Jusa/Xinhua)

Mnangagwa also said he had made a deliberate decision to heighten the pace of modernization and capacitation of the defense forces.

He also took the opportunity to express gratitude to friendly nations for their partnerships with Zimbabwe with regard to the training needs of the ZDF.