HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who serves as Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), today presided over a highly anticipated handover parade at Charles Gumbo Barracks, marking a significant transition in the nation’s military leadership. The ceremony formalised the transfer of command as General Emmanuel Matatu assumed leadership from General Philip Valerio Sibanda, who retires after decades of distinguished service in Zimbabwe’s armed forces.
The handover event is part of a broader reshuffle within the ZDF. General Matatu, previously serving as Lieutenant General, was elevated to the rank of General, taking over the overall command of the Defence Forces. Simultaneously, Lieutenant General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi will step into the role of Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, succeeding General Matatu. Both appointments reflect the government’s commitment to maintaining continuity, professionalism and operational efficiency within the country’s defence establishment.
President Mnangagwa, as the Chief Witnessing Officer, underscored the importance of the occasion, noting that stable leadership transitions are vital for national security and the ongoing development of the Defence Forces. Speaking to assembled officers and invited dignitaries, he highlighted the professionalism of Zimbabwe’s military and its critical role in safeguarding sovereignty and maintaining peace both at home and abroad.
The ceremony commenced with the playing of the national anthem, signalling the start of proceedings, followed by a formal inspection of the parade mounted by members of the ZDF. General Sibanda, whose career has spanned numerous high-profile postings and operational responsibilities, conducted the inspection with customary precision, reflecting the discipline that has characterised his tenure.
As part of the event, General Sibanda delivered a farewell address in which he reflected on his years of service, achievements and the enduring values that guide the ZDF. His speech highlighted the importance of loyalty, integrity and the unbroken chain of command in ensuring that the Defence Forces remain a cohesive and effective institution. Officers and troops attending the parade observed a formal salute to honour the retiring commander’s contributions to national defence.
General Matatu followed with an acceptance address, affirming his commitment to uphold the standards and traditions of the ZDF while leading the organisation into a new era. He emphasised the importance of modernisation, operational readiness and the welfare of servicemen and women. In his remarks, he promised to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor, maintaining the Defence Forces as a professional and disciplined institution.
Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi, now appointed Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, also pledged to advance the operational effectiveness of the Army. His experience in leadership positions is expected to provide continuity and stability as the Defence Forces navigate evolving security challenges.
The event drew a host of senior government and military officials. Vice President General Constantino Chiwenga, who previously served as ZDF Commander, attended in full military attire, reflecting his enduring role within the Defence Forces and the continuity of leadership across successive generations of officers. Other senior officials and dignitaries were present to witness the historic transition, reinforcing the significance of the ceremony for both the military and the nation at large.
Command Shift as General Sibanda Transfers Leadership to General Matatu
Central to the proceedings was the signing of the official handover certificates, symbolising the legal and formal transfer of authority. This step, while procedural, carries profound significance in ensuring accountability and clarity in military command structures. It represents the passing of responsibility from a retiring officer to his successor and reaffirms the integrity of the Defence Forces’ chain of command.
Observers noted that the handover parade exemplifies the discipline, order and ceremonial tradition of the ZDF. It also provides an opportunity to publicly celebrate the careers of distinguished officers while signalling a smooth transition to new leadership. Such events serve not only to reinforce morale within the forces but also to assure the public of the professionalism and stability of the nation’s defence institutions.
As the ceremony concluded, President Mnangagwa praised both outgoing and incoming leaders for their dedication, stressing the critical role of the ZDF in protecting Zimbabwe’s sovereignty, maintaining internal security and supporting the country’s development objectives. He encouraged all personnel to continue upholding the values of service, loyalty and patriotism that have historically defined the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
The handover at Charles Gumbo Barracks represents more than a mere change of command—it is a public affirmation of continuity, stability and commitment to national defence. For General Matatu, Lieutenant General Tapfumaneyi, and all members of the ZDF, today marks both an end and a beginning: a salute to past achievements and a pledge to future service.
Source- Herald
