The Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces, President Mnangagwa, yesterday promoted six generals and aviation officers of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces to retirement.
The President made the promotions under the Defense Act (Chapter 11:02) Section 20, as read with Statutory Instrument No. 257 of 2020, Section 19C, Subsection 2C, which reads “His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-in-Chief”. “The Commander of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces may, on the advice of the Minister of Defence, on the recommendations of the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces, reward any member for distinguished service or gallant conduct on active service by promoting an officer to a higher rank.”
President Mnangagwa, on the advice of Defense Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, approved and approved the promotions.
The retired service commanders, Lieutenant General David Sijauk, have been promoted to the rank of General effective 20 October 2023, while Air Marshal Elson Moyo has been promoted to the rank of Air Chief effective 15 March 2024.
Major General Chris Mubande has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General of the Army with effect from 17 September 2023.
Brigadier General Justin Mogagi, Themba Mlambo and Tendai Dzirotwe have been promoted to the rank of Major General with effect from 17 March 2024.
General Sijauki has since been appointed Ambassador-designate to the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Awarding new insignia of rank to the promoted officers, Commander of the Zimbabwe Defense Forces, General Philip Valerio Sibanda, said the promotions were a true testament to hard work and loyalty to national duty.
“The promotion we are witnessing today is a true testament to the selfless service you have shown to this country dating back to the war of liberation struggle that led to these many years of service in the Zimbabwe Defense Forces,” he said.
He called on the six to remain exemplary in their retirement, adding that the ZDF would not hesitate to contact them if their services were required.
The retirement of former combatants is promoted in regulations, in line with Zimbabwe’s constitution, to honor the country’s liberators.
Air Chief Marshal Moyo, while giving a vote of thanks, said their services remain available when needed.
“For all of us who have been promoted, this day will forever be etched in our memories as it represents the pinnacle of achievements in our service in the Zimbabwe Defense Forces. Therefore, needless to say, we are filled with a deep sense of accomplishment, gratitude and humility.
“At the same time, we are aware that this honor bestowed upon us, comes with new responsibilities and higher expectations. On behalf of all the officers promoted today, I wish to offer you the highest assurance that our loyalty and determination to serve the Zimbabwe Defense Forces and the nation has not wavered. He declares
