I’M PROUD OF ARMY-LUNGU
…soldiers are dedicated, non-partisan and respect rule of law
PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu has commended the Zambia Army for being professional as evidenced by their conduct, dedication to national duty, respect for the rule of law and the principle of nonpartisanship.
Meanwhile, President Lungu has authorised construction of barracks in Choma, Solwezi and Muchinga and the establishment of a national defence university in Kabwe at MILTEZ to accelerate human resource development.
President Lungu, who is the Commander-in-Chief of the armed forces, also commissioned the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the army chapel in Arakan barracks and immediately pledged to donate 500 bags of cement.
This came to light yesterday when President Lungu presented new colours to the 1, 2 and 3 infantry battalions during consecration after trooping of old colours at an “eye-catching” parade ceremony.
He said the Zambia Army had been acclaimed without doubt as the model of military professionalism on the African continent and that as President, he was very proud. He said only a few armies in Africa could boast of Zambia Army’s tremendous achievements.
President Lungu said the colours served as evidence to Zambians and the rest of the world that Zambia was indeed a champion of peace.
“This professionalism is evidenced in conduct, dedication to national duty and respect for the rule of law and most importantly the principle of nonpartisanship particularly in the area of politics,” he said.
He commended the army for its great contribution to the maintenance of peace and security in the country.
President Lungu said the army played a great role in the preservation of integrity during the 2016 general elections and for their exemplary performance in African Union (AU) and United Nations (UN) peacekeeping operations.
He however observed that the army had a challenge of low manpower levels and accommodation.
“My government has already authorised the construction of barracks in Choma, Solwezi and Muchinga provinces. I have also authorised the establishment of a national defence university in Kabwe at MILTEZ so as to accelerate human resource development.
Meanwhile, army commander Lieutenant-General Paul Mihova explained that colours symbolised distinct functions in the military. He said the tradition originated from Egypt about 500 years ago.
Lt-Gen Mihova said he was truly gratified for the support and modernisation programme.
He said the army had expended under the able leadership of President Lungu following the establishment of several services such the marine barracks in Kawamba.
Lt-Gen Mihova thanked President Lungu for the support rendered to the army through the Ministry of Defence for the procurement and operational equipment such as the earth moving machines.