More than 800 Zimbabwe National Army junior officers have graduated from the Five Infantry Brigade in Gweru after completing a 36-week military training program.
The 808 graduates completed studies in map reading, field craft foot, and arms drill, first aid civil-military relations, and conventional and low-intensity operations, among others.
Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Lieutenant General David Sigauke implored the officers to have a clear understanding of Zimbabwe’s rich history for them to defend the country’s territorial integrity from an informed position.
“The understanding of the history of our nation starting from where we came from, where we are, and where we are going is a major undertaking which requires an oriented force to uphold the fine legacy left to us by our forebearers,” he said.
He went on, “Be reminded that this country has a long and rich history which needs to be passed from one generation to another.”
“On this note, you are therefore required to have a full understanding of your role in defense of our national interests from both internal and external threats,” he further reiterated.
He also reminded them to be mindful of the dangers posed by social media, which might be detrimental to their careers.
“I want you to be vigilant and alive to the dangers of social media platforms where there is disinformation and misinformation aimed at subverting the general populace and the soldiers have also become a target,” he said.
“As you join your units, you have clearly defined hierarchy of command starting from section commanders to formation commanders whom you should seek advice and guidance whenever you are bombarded with such subversive messages through social media,” he asserted.
The training programme started in July last year with 820 recruits but 808 completed the course after 12 others dropped out due to various reasons.
There was also a good number of female graduates with 147 of the officers being women.
