By Sharon Chimenya
DRUGS and substance abuse is a significant threat to the national security and well-being of soldiers, the National Army Commander Lieutenant General Anselem Sanyatwe has warned.
Speaking at a recent handover-takeover parade at Masvingo Headquarters 4 Infantry Brigade (Vitalis Gava Musungwa Zvinavashe Barracks) between the incoming Commander Brigadier General Oscar Tshuma and the outgoing Commamder Brigadier General Cephas Gurira, he urged the army to curb drug abuse.
Lt Gen Sanyatwe said there was no room for drug abusers and that legal procedures must be implemented to deal with such a scourge.
“One important issue that I demand from you as you take over the reins, is to make sure that you continue to ensure that you curb drug and substance abuse among the rank and file. Drug and substance abuse poses a significant threat to our national security as well as the operational readiness and well-being of our troops,” he said.
“Accordingly, you should take a zero-tolerance approach to send a very strong message. Follow the legal and administrative procedures to dismiss offenders, as there is no room for drug abusers in the Zimbabwe National Army.”
He implored Brig-Gen Tshuma to pay particular attention to principled leadership responsive to the dictates of the current operating environment and to be highly vigilant and professional in the execution of his duties.
“Brigadier General Tshuma, as you step into your role as commander 4 Infantry Brigade, it is crucial that you foster an environment of unwavering loyalty among men and women under your command. Their allegiance to the President and Commander-In-Chief, His Excellence, Dr, ED Mnangagwa, the Presidium, and their commanders at all levels, not only strengthens the integrity of our military but also ensures operational effectiveness.
“By cultivating a culture of respect and dedication, you will empower your personnel to uphold their loyalty, ensuring that they are not just soldiers but steadfast guardians of our democracy. Your leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping their resolve and dedication, ultimately contributing to the strength and resilience of our army.”
He said continuous training and development was the catalyst upon which success is anchored.
“In an ever-changing landscape, our ability to adapt and evolve is paramount. The battlefield is no longer confined to traditional theatres, it encompasses new technologies, cyber threats, and complex geopolitical dynamics. Be reminded that, it is vital that you invest in comprehensive training programmes that not only focus on physical readiness but also on developing critical thinking.”
He commended Brig General Gurira, who has been reassigned to a similar appointment as Commander 1 Infantry Brigade, for a sterling job he did leading the formation as he did so with honour and distinction.
“I take pride in the professional manner the outgoing Commander discharged his duties at the helm of this prestigious Formation. The General’s commitment and resoluteness in curbing livestock rustling that was rampant along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border, during his stint here made a significant impact in the reduction of this vice. As he leaves 4 Infantry Brigade, he was fighting hard for the Operationalisation of the Joint Parks Management Committee between Zimbabwe and Mozambique as spelt out in the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area.
“Operationalisation of the said Management Committee will go a long way in addressing the challenges of commercial poaching by game farms that are adjacent to the Gonarezhou National Park. The General Officer was also working tirelessly to see the rehabilitation of the border patrol road along the Zimbabwe-Mozambique border to enhance the security of our border areas. To this end, I challenge the Incoming Commander to ensure that this noble vision comes to fruition,” he said.
