While presiding over the 70th Pilot Training Course in Gweru this Wednesday, ZANU PF First Secretary and President, His Excellency, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa commended the adoption of technology into the Airforce.
Speaking from the Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, President Mnangagwa said the injection of new blood into the Airforce is a development thrust.
"It is my singular honour and privilege to officiate at this Commissioning and Wings Parade for Number 70, Pilot Training Course. I commend our national strategic School of Flying Training, the Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base for its renowned tradition of excellence and having this time churned out 10 officers whom I have duly conferred flying wings. To earn a commission as an officer in the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and qualify as a combat pilot is a remarkable achievement at the personal level and indeed a major national milestone. Well-done. Congratulations.
"For the newly commissioned pilots on Parade, this is a proud moment for you and your families. As graduates, you will attest that the journey to earning these wings was a steep and turbulent climb.
"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.
“I commend the Air Force of Zimbabwe for taking deliberate steps to upskill its personnel by entering into technology transfer agreements, including with suppliers of equipment. An overhaul and maintenance facility established here at Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base, must continue to help build a pool of agile, competent, skilled young men and women.
“Over the years, the Air Force of Zimbabwe has demonstrated gallantry and professionalism, performing military and humanitarian operations within and outside the borders of Zimbabwe. As a result, Zimbabwe has earned a positive image through air diplomacy and supporting our foreign policy.
“The achievements should not be taken in isolation, but they must continue to reinforce the legacy of excellence in the Air Force of Zimbabwe. Guided by the principle Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, it is commendable that the Air Force of Zimbabwe continues to cooperate with other regional air forces under the umbrella of the SADC Standing Aviation Committee. The mandate of the Committee is to enhance military aviation capabilities of Member States.
“Under this regional initiative and envisaged mandate, training exercises are regularly being conducted to enhance inter-operability of our forces in readiness to respond to any threats. As Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Detence Forces, look forward to the Air Force of Zimbabwe, to successfully host 'Exercise Blue Runde,' in 2027. The Exercise will allow the air forces to train on strategy, planning and execution of operations. Additionally, the Air Force of Zimbabwe is also set to perform displays at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition in South Africa.
“Meanwhile, our military, including the young pilots at this pass-out parade, must appreciate the high expectations that await them as they assume new responsibilities. The nation expect the highest standards of professionalism, precision and discipline. I implore you to be patriotic and loyal, upholding the virtues of exemplary leadership, commitment to duty and advancement of our national interests. You must refrain from indulging self-destructive behaviour such as abuse of drugs and other harmful substances. The wings conferred on you are the fortress of our nation."