Harare, (New Ziana) — President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Monday presided over the handover and takeover parade marking a historic transition in the leadership of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), paying glowing tribute to outgoing Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda while welcoming incoming Commander General Emmanuel Matatu.
Addressing a gathering of senior government officials, service chiefs, diplomats and invited guests, President Mnangagwa described the ceremony as both a celebration of distinguished service and a reaffirmation of the unwavering professionalism of the country’s defence forces.
He hailed General Sibanda’s illustrious 51-year military career, which began in 1974 during the liberation struggle and spanned key command and strategic roles in the post-independence era, praising him as an officer who consistently embodied loyalty, patriotism and exceptional discipline.
“Throughout his career, General Sibanda has always demonstrated unflinching loyalty and patriotism as well as unparalleled discipline and professionalism, both as a soldier and as a son of Zimbabwe. His ethics and values are worthy of emulation by the rank and file across the Defence Forces,” he said.
General Sibanda’s journey from the liberation war, where he rose to Head of Combat Intelligence in the ZIPRA High Command, to high-profile post-independence deployments was highlighted as a testament to his dedication and competence.
President Mnangagwa detailed his early post-independence role as a Liaison Officer under Operation Hurricane, working alongside former ZANLA and Rhodesian colleagues to manage assembly points across Mashonaland East, Central and West provinces.
From there, General Sibanda’s ascent saw him assume a series of critical posts, including Quartermaster Staff at 2the Army Headquarters, Commandant of the Zimbabwe Staff College, Commander of 4 Infantry Brigade, and Chief of Staff in both Administrative and General Staff roles.
His international leadership was also emphasised, particularly his tenure as Commander and Chief Military Observer of the United Nations Angola Verification Missions (UNAVEM III and MONUA), between 1995 and 1998.
President Mnangagwa further noted General Sibanda’s command role in the Democratic Republic of Congo as Force Commander of the Southern African Development Community Operation Sovereign Legitimacy, and his subsequent leadership of the Zimbabwe National Army before his elevation to Commander of the Defence Forces in 2017.
“As Commander Defence Forces, I have worked closely with him for the last seven years. I want to thank General Sibanda for his service to Zimbabwe. I wish you the very best in the years ahead,” he said.
He extended appreciation to Mrs Sibanda and the entire Sibanda family for their sacrifices and unwavering support throughout the General’s demanding career.
Turning to the incoming Commander, General Emmanuel Matatu, President Mnangagwa expressed confidence in his capability to carry forward the legacy of professionalism and discipline that defines the ZDF.
“I congratulate you on your promotion and appointment. I am confident that you are equal to the task and will use your vast experience to effectively and professionally lead the ZDF as was the case with your predecessor,” he said, urging General Matatu to uphold continuity in the forces’ programs and maintain the high standards set by General Sibanda.
President Mnangagwa also called on officers, men and women of the ZDF to remain steadfast, disciplined and loyal, emphasising that leadership changes should not disrupt the overarching mission of defending Zimbabwe’s sovereignty.
“While we may have changes in leadership, the mission of the ZDF remains the same. I implore you to render the same support and professionalism to the new Commander as you have always done,” he said.
President Mnangagwa commended invited guests for attending the ceremony and wished the new Commander strength and success as he assumes his mandate.
The ceremony marked a pivotal moment for the ZDF, blending honour for the past with optimism for the future as a new command era begins.
New Ziana
