ZIMBABWE MILITARY ACADEMY GRADUATION. . . pride, patriotism and national duty
Patrick Chitumba, Midlands Bureau Chief
ON a crisp, sunlit morning yesterday in Gweru, President Mnangagwa presided over the Zimbabwe Military Academy’s (ZMA) Regular Officer Cadet Course 3/40/23 pass out parade. A proud sense of national identity filled the air as the military band played and boots stamped.
Just a week after commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Second World War’s end in Russia, honouring those lost in the Great Patriotic War (1941–1945), the President reflected on history, welcoming a new generation of Zimbabwe’s defenders.
“Last week, I attended the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War by the then USSR (1941–1945), a significant milestone in the end of the Second World War. This is commemorated in the Russian Federation and many other progressive nations such as Belarus.
“The loss of millions of lives during that dark period of world history forever reminds us of the need to pursue national unity and to seek peace,” said President Mnangagwa, his voice echoing across the parade ground.
Behind President Mnangagwa, the cadets stood tall, transformed from civilians into proud military officers through discipline and sacrifice. Their defining moment was met with thunderous applause from family, mentors, and the supportive Gweru community, celebrating their arduous journey.
President Mnangagwa’s words rang with fatherly pride and patriotic conviction.
“The call of duty always comes first. I thank you, the Commandant and staff of the Zimbabwe Military Academy, for producing ‘high-grade’ Regular Officer Cadet graduates. The young men and women who walked into this compound back in 2023 as civilians walk out today as professional military officers who embody the military culture, values, and ethos. They are adequately prepared for the road ahead. Well done,” he said.
But the weight of the badge, their Commander-in-Chief reminded them, is not merely ceremonial — it is a lifelong calling.
“Your graduation confers on you huge responsibilities associated with joining the ranks of officers, charged with the responsibility of commanding men and women in circumstances of great peril.
“Today’s achievement is just a first step. Embrace the lessons that lie ahead and the responsibilities that come with your commission with teachable spirits. As you receive your commission today and begin to navigate your military professions, be conscious of the reverence our nation accords to the ZDF. Lead with unquestionable loyalty, patriotism, and integrity,” he said.
The President’s message was both a charge and a blessing. He reminded them of the sacred national mantra: “Nyika inovakwa, inotongwa, inonamatirwa, inodzivirirwa nevene vayo. Ilizwe lakhiwa, libuswe, likhulekelwe, livikelwe, ngabanikazi balo.
“Always serve with purpose and devotion to the enduring values that have made us a strong, united, peaceful, and indomitable nation — even against the onslaught of illegal sanctions imposed on our motherland.”
President Mnangagwa specifically commended Cadets Falethu Siphosethu Mkwananzi and Vilakati from the Kingdom of Eswatini. He praised not only their academic success but also their representation of the warm, fraternal ties between Zimbabwe and its sister nations.
“I congratulate you both in a very special way. Your exemplary commitment, boldness, and zeal saw you achieve this success. Amhlophe. You were indeed good ambassadors of the excellent bilateral relations between our two sister nations.
“As you assume the commission from your country, you shall remain part of the Regular Officer Cadet Course 3/40/23, and Zimbabwe is your second home. I wish you successful careers,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also commended the Gweru community, who have remained reliable partners to the ZMA, as well as other stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
“These synergies are a testament to the bond that exists between our military and the communities it serves. I once again urge the graduating officer cadet course to continue to uphold the proud tradition of military service with distinction and honour. Today, the torch is passed to you, as you join the ranks of the Officer Corps,” he said.
Beyond the salutes and ceremonials, there was a palpable emotion in the air — pride laced with nostalgia. Parents wiped away tears, siblings cheered with pride. These were not just military officers — they were sons, daughters, dreams made flesh.
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