ZNA takes a stand against drug abuse
By Dumisani Ndlovu
Senior Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) official Major General Emmanuel Matatu Chief of Staff Administrative Staff has cautioned aspiring soldiers against drug and substance abuse, stressing that the army will not recruit individuals with addiction issues, as they may compromise discipline and duty.
He was speaking at the 2024 Midlands Traditional Leaders Day event held Chief Ntabeni in Zhombe.
Representing Commander of the ZNA, Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe, Major General Emmanuel Matatu emphasized the army’s zero-tolerance policy on drug abuse. In addition to the warning, Major-General Dube highlighted the importance of collaboration between the army and traditional leaders in community development programs.
“The other important issue I would like to talk about is the issue of drug and substance abuse. Our children are becoming wayward because of drugs abuse. As a recruiting officer, I often see potential soldiers coming for job interviews while intoxicated. We do not employ such people; we cannot have soldiers who get highly intoxicated. We cannot trust such soldier in defending our nation for doing so risk us being shot by such calibre of soldier, “he said.
The senior army officer emphasized the need for parents and community leaders to continue teaching children about the dangers of drug and substance abuse.
Major General Emmanuel Matatu further emphasized that the army’s relationship with traditional leaders is a lifelong one.
“When we joined the army, we came from the chief, and when we retire, we will return to the chief and back to the community we come from, “he said emphasizing the interconnectedness of the army and traditional leadership.
He said the relation between the army and the chiefs dates back to the time of liberation struggle hence their commitment in partnership with chiefs in all community development programs,” he explained.
This statement underscores the army’s commitment to its roots and its responsibility to give back to the communities that nurture its personnel.
The ZNA has a long-standing tradition of commemorating and observing the great works done by traditional leaders.
“As the army, every year we use this day to commemorate and observe the great works being done by the chiefs,” Major-General Matatu said. This tradition serves as a reminder of the army’s respect for traditional leadership and its recognition of the critical role that chiefs play in nation-building.
In a country grappling with drug and substance abuse, declared a security threat by the government, the ZNA’s stance on discipline and professionalism is more crucial than ever. By partnering with traditional leaders and maintaining high standards, the army aims to uphold its reputation as a force for good in Zimbabwean society.
