Minister of Defence Hon. Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri
By Panashe Hamudiwamwe
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) have reaffirmed their commitment to defending Zimbabwe’s independence and supporting the national economic vision, Vision 2030 enunciated by president Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The ZDF consists of two main branches: the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) and the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ), with it’s primary responsibility being to uphold Zimbabwe’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
In her address during the celebrations at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, Minister of Defence Hon. Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri assured President Mnangagwa, the Commander-in-Chief of the ZDF, that the military remains dedicated and prepared to protect the achievements of independence and collaborate with the government towards the realization of national development goals.
This pledge comes as the central focus in Zimbabwe shifts towards development, with the Mnangagwa-led government striving to revitalize all sectors of the economy in alignment with the National Development Strategy 1, which feeds into Vision 2030.
This year’s ZDF Day was celebrated under the theme: “The Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030,” a theme that aptly reflects the ZDF’s dedication to the national cause.
“Your forces are committing themselves unequivocally that they will defend our hard-won independence through their blood; wachiti Mwoyo Wangu Watsidza kufira Zimbabwe, kuzadzisa basa ravakasiirwa, ropa ravo richava reZimbabwe, mumakomo nemurwizi vachararamo kuzadzisa basa ratakasiirwa,” she said.
“We will continue executing our constitutional mandate of protecting Zimbabwe, its people, its sovereignty, and territorial integrity, ensuring that Vision 2030 becomes a reality,” added Hon Muchinguri.
This commitment, deeply rooted in the struggle for independence and the protection of its gains, underscores the ZDF’s enduring dedication to safeguarding the nation. Unlike the colonial Rhodesian army, which aimed to suppress Zimbabweans’ aspirations, the ZDF has established a strong security framework to counter threats and maintain peace.
The ZNA focuses on land-based military operations, while the AFZ handles air defense and support. Together, these branches work to ensure national security and support government objectives. The ZDF also plays a role in internal security and disaster relief operations.
In alignment with President Mnangagwa’s call for a unified governmental approach, Minister Muchinguri stated that the Defence Forces’ administration and operations align with Vision 2030 and the constitutional mandate to support government ministries and departments.
“Your Excellency, Your Defence Forces embraced your Vision 2030, which aims to establish a ‘Prosperous and Empowered Upper Middle Income Society by 2030.’ Our second mandate, as enshrined in the constitution, is to support civil ministries in achieving national development goals, specifically under National Development Strategy 1.”
She further noted that the Defence Forces contribute to infrastructure development, including building schools, clinics, and bridges; ensuring food and nutrition security through logistical support; and improving the health and well-being of Zimbabweans.
Each August, the ZDF also participates in charity programs, providing facilities and services to support various communities across Zimbabwe. This year, several buildings were handed over to communities throughout the country.
