By Cimba Shepherd Nhamo
On this momentous occasion of Defence Forces Day, Zimbabwe bows its head in honour and lifts its voice in celebration of the gallant men and women of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) — a force forged in the crucible of liberation, shaped by discipline, and driven by unwavering love for the motherland.
Since its inception in 1980, following the integration of the Rhodesian Forces, the Zimbabwe African National Liberation Army (ZANLA), and the Zimbabwe People’s Revolutionary Army (ZIPRA), the Zimbabwe Defence Forces has stood as a symbol of unity, national pride, and continental strength. It is more than just a military institution — it is a living legacy of our struggle for freedom, a custodian of peace, and a protector of our sovereignty.
The ZDF has earned a sterling reputation for discipline, professionalism, and loyalty — not just within Zimbabwe, but across the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the African continent, and the world at large. This is a force that commands respect and admiration wherever its boots have landed — a pride of SADC, a standard of excellence among African armed forces.
Their combat skills and strategic prowess have been proven time and again. Whether in intense battlefield operations or during complex peacekeeping missions, the Zimbabwean soldier has stood tall — focused, fearless, and formidable.
From the jungles of Mozambique in the fight against RENAMO insurgents, to the conflict zones of the Democratic Republic of Congo, where they played a key role in regional stability under SADC mandates — the ZDF has never shied away from its responsibility to defend not just Zimbabwe, but peace and order across the region.
Beyond regional borders, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces have represented the country with distinction under both African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions. Deployed to volatile regions across Africa and beyond, our soldiers have consistently demonstrated the highest levels of discipline, professionalism, and humanity.
Wherever the ZDF has been sent, their presence has brought hope, order, and stability — earning respect from international partners and the communities they protect. The world has come to know the Zimbabwean soldier as a true ambassador of peace.
Here at home, the Zimbabwe Defence Forces have stood as the bedrock of national unity and security. In moments of peace and periods of transition, the ZDF has maintained its role with composure, intelligence, and resolve.
Who can forget the events of 2017, when Zimbabwe experienced a delicate political transformation? It was the ZDF that ensured the process unfolded smoothly and peacefully, safeguarding the nation’s interests and paving the way for the dawn of the Second Republic. Their conduct during that time reminded the world of the ZDF’s deep commitment to the rule of law and constitutionalism.
Their loyalty lies with Zimbabwe. Their oath is to the people. Their mission is peace, always — and readiness, always.
Every day, every night — in every weather and every season — the brave sons and daughters of Zimbabwe watch over us. On land, in the skies, along our borders and coastlines — they remain ever vigilant.
These are men and women who made a sacred vow: to defend their nation with their lives if need be. When the rest of the nation sleeps, they are awake. When others retreat, they step forward. One eye open in rest, one hand always on the ready.
From the rank of Private to General, every soldier is part of the heartbeat of Zimbabwe’s defence — a force that does not waver, a flame that never dies.
As citizens of this great land, we owe them more than just words. We owe them our freedom, our peace, our sovereignty. We owe them the quiet comfort of knowing that Zimbabwe is safe — that while we chase our dreams, someone stands ready to defend them.
Today, let us raise our voices in unison to say:
We see you. We honour you. We thank you.
To the gallant Zimbabwe Defence Forces — the pride of Zimbabwe, the pride of SADC, and a respected pillar of peace across Africa — we salute you.
Happy Defence Forces Day!
May your legacy live on. May your service never be forgotten. And may the flag you defend always fly high.
