Source: ZNA commander hails transition tradition – herald
Sikhumbuzo Moyo-Bulawayo Bureau
THE Zimbabwe Defence Forces has a deeply entrenched tradition that marks the transition of leadership and responsibility, underscoring the institution’s enduring spirit and the unwavering trust shared among its members, a senior military officer has said.
Speaking at the change of command ceremony for 1 Infantry Brigade at Khumalo Barracks in Bulawayo yesterday, Commander Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Lieutenant-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi commended the outgoing and incoming commanders, Major General Cephas Gurira and Brigadier-General Ernest Shamu, for upholding the long-standing military practice of hosting a dining in and dining out ceremony.
He noted that the tradition, which symbolises unity and camaraderie within the military, had not been observed for some time due to the economic challenges previously faced by the country.
“I want to commend the two senior officers for upholding this important military tradition, where officers and soldiers gather and dine together as part of our institutional culture,”
Quoting former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo, Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said: “Change of command is not just a ritual, but a demonstration of the strength and resilience of our institutions.”
He said the smooth handover reflected continuity and professionalism — values that define the armed forces.
“As military professionals, we are the torchbearers of a rich heritage forged by the sacrifices, bravery and selflessness of our predecessors who served our great nation with honour and distinction.
“We, therefore, have a sacred responsibility to preserve and pass on this legacy to the next generation of military leaders,” said Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi.
The Commander said the Zimbabwe Defence Forces’ legacy was anchored on key principles such as discipline, integrity, respect for authority, loyalty, selflessness and professionalism—foundations essential to building a cohesive and effective army.
He noted that both commanders involved in the changeover were founding members of the ZNA, having served in ZANLA during the liberation struggle before being attested into the national army in 1980.
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi expressed gratitude to Maj Gen Gurira for his exemplary leadership, which saw him promoted to Chief of Staff (Administration) at Army Headquarters. He said Maj Gen Gurira had implemented several initiatives to improve the welfare and operational effectiveness of the brigade.
The army commander highlighted that 1 Infantry Brigade oversees one of the largest operational areas in the ZNA, stretching approximately 1 300km.
“The brigade’s responsibilities extend beyond border security to include military diplomacy with neighbouring countries such as South Africa, Botswana and Zambia, while the brigade commander works closely with Government structures and provincial leadership within the three provinces that fall under the brigade’s operational area,” he said.
Lt-Gen Tapfumaneyi said Brig-Gen Shamu’s new responsibilities would be greater than those he previously held in Manicaland province due to the scale and strategic importance of the brigade. “You now have three provinces to look after and significant responsibilities that include both operational and diplomatic engagements,” he said.
In his farewell remarks, Maj-Gen Gurira said it had been a great honour to command the brigade. He described his tenure as both productive and fulfilling, highlighting the strong bond forged with officers, men and women in the formation, as well as with Government officials and provincial leadership.
Maj-Gen Gurira praised members of the brigade for their teamwork, discipline and commitment, noting that these had contributed to the successful execution of operations, training programmes and other assignments from army headquarters.
Brig-Gen Shamu said he was humbled and honoured by the appointment, describing it as a reflection of the trust and confidence placed in him by the army leadership. He said 1 Infantry Brigade had proven itself a formidable formation over the years through its operational track record.
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