Source: NEW: President Mnangagwa orders modernisation of defence systems amid global turbulence – herald
Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has directed the leadership of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) to rapidly modernise the country’s defence capabilities, citing increasingly unpredictable global security dynamics, turbulent international relations and far-reaching economic shocks affecting nations worldwide.
Addressing thousands at Rufaro Stadium during the 46th Anniversary of Defence Forces Day today, the Commander-in-Chief outlined a comprehensive vision to realign Zimbabwe’s security architecture.
The 2026 commemorations were held under the theme “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing Peace and Stability for the Attainment of Vision 2030”.
“Our goal is to safeguard peace, stability and the new national development trajectory through a realigned security architecture that reinforces progress and realisation of Vision 2030,” President Mnangagwa declared.
Embracing AI, cyber security and domestic innovation
The President stressed that in an evolving complex threat landscape, military readiness must go beyond traditional warfare methods.
He urged senior military officers to take the lead in building an innovative defence ecosystem that embraces science, technology and fluid, resource-efficient systems.
Highlighting specific technological priorities, President Mnangagwa called for strengthening dedicated units to anticipate and mitigate the impact of artificial intelligence and cyber threats on national security.
He also called for the commercialisation of ground-breaking student research and military innovations displayed at the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU) to foster internal defence self-reliance.
Food security and community development
The Head of State commended the armed forces for contributing directly to socio-economic growth and national food security through production on military institutional farms.He challenged the forces to expand beyond basic production into agro-processing ventures and high-value agricultural exports.
Highlighting the ZDF’s civil-military projects, the President commended ongoing infrastructure development, including the construction of schools and health facilities in Rushinga, Buhera, Gokwe, Mutasa North and Harare, as well as medical outreach missions conducted with the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
On disaster response and internal security, the President lauded the military for precision search-and-rescue operations during natural disasters in Masvingo and Midlands Provinces, as well as joint border control operations with the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) along borders with South Africa, Botswana, Zambia and Mozambique.
Landmine clearance and international diplomacy
President Mnangagwa highlighted ongoing efforts to clear residual landmines planted during the liberation struggle, which continue to render large tracts of land economically inactive.
He thanked international development partners — including the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Norwegian People’s Aid (NPA), HALO Trust and Mines Advisory Group (MAG) — for assisting the ZDF National Mine Clearance Unit towards achieving a mine-free status under the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Treaty.
On international relations, the President reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s diplomatic stance of being “a friend to all and enemy to none”.
He described Zimbabwe’s election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term as a global tribute to its commitment to peace.
He also commended the Air Force of Zimbabwe for its participation in the regional SADC Exercise Blue Lugwashu in Zambia, announcing that Zimbabwe will host the next edition of the military exercise in 2027.Commitment to troops’ welfare
Concluding his address, President Mnangagwa assured members of the armed forces that his administration remains committed to improving their welfare and service conditions.
This includes expanding housing and institutional infrastructure in cantonment areas and integrating renewable energy technologies to ensure stable power across military establishments.
“Officers, men and women of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the nation is proud of you,” President Mnangagwa concluded.
“Sustain the momentum and keep up the good work that has earned you the status of a dependable, professional and highly reputable force.”
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