Mnangagwa Commissions New Air Force of Zimbabwe Pilots at Gweru Ceremony

The ceremony marked the commissioning of a new group of pilots, with the President describing the development as an important milestone in strengthening the country's defence capabilities and developing human capital.

In his remarks, Mnangagwa said the introduction of new personnel into the Air Force of Zimbabwe and the wider Zimbabwe Defence Forces was in line with his Government's development agenda, as outlined in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).

“The injection of new blood into the Air Force of Zimbabwe and broadly the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, is in line with the development thrust of my Government. This is aptly captured in the National Development Strategy 2, and our recognition that human capital development is a critical pillar for attainment of Vision 2030,” he said.

The President congratulated the newly commissioned pilots and acknowledged the role played by their parents and families in supporting them throughout their demanding training programme.

However, the occasion was also marked by grief following the deaths of an Officer Cadet and an Instructor Pilot during training.

Mnangagwa extended his condolences to the bereaved families and fellow service members, describing their loss as a sacrifice in service to the country.

He said the Air Force's pilot training programme had been upgraded to incorporate modern global flying training methods, in line with developments in the aviation sector.

The newly commissioned officers were urged to uphold the core values of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, including patriotism, discipline and loyalty.

Mnangagwa also highlighted the AFZ's contribution to regional and international cooperation through air diplomacy, noting its continued collaboration with the Standing Aviation Community of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

Looking ahead, he said the country's defence forces were preparing for Exercise Runde and the upcoming Africa Aerospace and Defence Expo in South Africa.

The President further acknowledged the Ministry of Defence, the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Air Force Command and the training team for their contribution to the training and commissioning programme.

He congratulated the newly commissioned officers, urging them to demonstrate professionalism and remain committed to advancing Zimbabwe's national interests.

By Simba Chiti