Army pays tribute to well-wishers

THE Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has paid tribute to well-wishers who continue to support its charity effort programmes despite the harsh economic environment the country is experiencing.

Speaking at the Commander ZNA charities Bulawayo dinner dance held at a local hotel on Friday, Commander ZNA Lieutenant General Philip Valerio Sibanda said the contributions made by various organisations had enabled the army to fulfil its charitable mandate.

He said through fundraising the army has not only managed to support the five charitable organisations which it manages but also other developmental projects outside the jurisdiction of the organisation.

“I am very much aware of the fact that the support we have received to this end, not only on this function, but throughout the year, is a real sacrifice from these companies as the economy has not performed to our expectations so far.

“This unrealised expectation has seen most companies struggle to keep afloat but you have found it within your hearts to contribute towards the good cause of charity. As the economic challenges continue to persist, the number of those who survive on your benevolence has also risen, giving a serious strain to our charities fund,” said Lt Gen Sibanda.

He said one of their major achievements was the contribution the army has made towards the country’s education sector saying through charities the organisation has done several projects that will transform the delivery of education within some schools.

“Last year we talked of the plight of students within the Mbalabala community who are walking or cycling 15 kilometres to and from the nearest secondary school. I highlighted my vision to construct a secondary school at Mbalabala, I am pleased to report that work commenced at the site and is progressing very well with the second block now at window level.

“We did not wait to finish construction of the school to enrol students, currently classes are going on from Form One to Four as the school is using borrowed accommodation from the nearby army barracks — the School of Infantry. The Form Four class is sitting for their first Ordinary Level examinations this year and I am looking forward to good results,” said Lt Gen Sibanda.

He revealed that the army has completed a science laboratory at Induna High School, which was sponsored to the tune of $374 000 and were now waiting for the official opening and handover.

He said the laboratory was set to be one of the best science laboratories in the southern region.

“This is a model for both wet and dry sciences which we would want to replicate in all our high schools in the near future. This is in line with not only the Government’s STEM initiative, but also our vision in the army to develop our own scientists as you know innovation and technology is furthered from the military forces worldwide.

“We also constructed a classroom block at Himango Secondary School in Bulilima district and several other similar projects in other provinces and districts, a girls’ hostel at Rusununguko in Goromonzi district, Chasiyatende Clinic in Mwenezi and many other projects that I might not be able to go through due to time constraints,” said Lt Gen Sibanda.

Speaking at the same event, Bigtime Strategic group chief executive officer, Mr Justice Maphosa, who was the guest speaker said despite the negativity and challenges which Zimbabwe was facing, the country continued to prosper and prove all detractors wrong.

“Every time the name Zimbabwe is mentioned, though correctly or wrongly, fitting into the context of the topic or not, some of us get very sensitive due to a number of reasons. Its emotions of a giant tree we inherited, which has become our shade in the scorching sun, our fortress from a dusty summer wind, our thanks giving first fruit of the season. We eat and are well fed by it. Protected and clothed by its majestic beauty Zimbabwe remains our father and mother land.

“I have been flying in and out of Zimbabwe every week now for months as we set up businesses to revive our economy. Zimbabwe is still alive, full of life and full of hope for the future of its children. Sons and daughters of Zimbabwe, you have it in you to achieve greatness. Let no one tell you otherwise. There were leaders they came, they did their part. Now it’s up to you and me,” said Mr Maphosa.

He paid tribute to the ZNA for its charitable efforts, noting that it showed selflessness and patriotism at a time when the country needed it most.