By Dumisani Ndlovu
Gweru – Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe, Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), has urged soldiers to prioritize the country’s national interest and sovereignty.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony of the 31st Basic Officers’ Course at the Zimbabwe Military Academy, Lt. Gen. Sanyatwe emphasized the importance of protecting the country’s national interest, sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.
The graduating class comprised officers from various fields, including medical doctors, pharmacists, social workers, chaplains, procurement officers, accountants, teachers, information technicians, electric engineers, environmental health technicians, and librarians.
Lt. Gen. Sanyatwe encouraged the officers to embody the mantra, “‘Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, igotongwa nevene vayo, uyezve igonamatirwa nevene vayo'” (The country is built by its people, it is defended by its people, and it is prosperous because of its people).
He emphasized that the military is a profession of service to the nation, requiring unquestionable levels of integrity, professionalism, and patriotism. The ZNA Commander also highlighted the importance of discipline, stating that it is the cornerstone of all professional armies worldwide.
Family members of the graduating officers attended the ceremony, including Dumezweni Mahlangu, whose sister Ayibongwe Mahlangu became a commissioned officer. Maria Shiri, who traveled from Masvingo, expressed pride in her son Ponsiano’s achievement.
