Zimbabwe’s Mnangagwa pledges to re-equip nation’s defence forces

President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe on Tuesday pledged to re-equip and modernise the country’s defence forces and improve the conditions of service of military personnel.

Officiating at the 38th anniversary of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day, Mnangagwa said some of the
equipment being used by the defence forces was old.

“My administration is committed to progressively and comprehensively addressing the conditions of
service of our defence forces, inclusive of their housing needs as the economy improves.

“In addition, my administration will also pay attention to the equipping of our forces with new equipment.

“Currently some of the equipment in their possession dates back 30 years,” he said.

Economic problems bedeviling the country have not spared the military, with some officers struggling
to find decent accommodation.

Mnangagwa once again urged Zimbabweans to remain peaceful in the aftermath of the July 30 elections
which had taken a violent turn after some opposition supporters protested against the perceived
delay in announcing the results.