Valentine Chebundu

Today, I had the distinct honour of presiding over the Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) Number 70 Pilot Training Course Wings Presentation and Commissioning Parade at the Josiah Tungamirai Air Force Base in Gweru, Midlands Province. This is a remarkable achievement and a proud moment for our newly commissioned pilots, as well as the parents and families who supported them throughout this grueling journey. While we celebrate this milestone, our hearts remain heavy as we remember the tragic loss of an Officer Cadet and an Instructor Pilot who lost their lives during training. We extend our deepest, heartfelt condolences to their families and comrades. Their ultimate sacrifice in service to our motherland will never be forgotten. In keeping with ongoing global trends, our pilot study program has been systematically upgraded to incorporate modern training methods of flying. As you step into your new roles, I urge you to fully adapt to the core values of the Air Force of Zimbabwe—patriotism, discipline, and unyielding loyalty. Human capital development remains a critical pillar for the attainment of Vision 2030, and investing in our defense personnel is central to this national objective. Over the years, the AFZ has demonstrated exceptional professionalism both within and outside our borders through robust Air Diplomacy. These achievements do not stand in isolation; the AFZ continues to stand strong alongside the Standing Aviation Community of SADC. Looking ahead, the nation expects the highest standards of professionalism, high values, and the fierce advancement of our national interest as our forces prepare for Exercise Runde and the upcoming Africa Aerospace and Defence expo in South Africa. The military tradition is built entirely on teamwork. I extend my profound gratitude to the Ministry of Defence, the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, the Air Force Command, and the entire training team for their unwavering support and dedication to duty. Congratulations to the newly commissioned officers!

Today, I had the pleasure of addressing Zimbabwe's Ambassadors at the Harare International Conference Centre (HICC), following the successful Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Senior Management and Ambassadors' Retreat and Strategic Review Meeting. Guided by our theme, "From Strategy to Results: Advancing Zimbabwe's National Interests through Coordinated, Accountable and Results-Driven Diplomacy," my message to our diplomats was clear: serving on diplomatic missions is no child’s play, and it is certainly not a holiday. My administration demands tangible, principled, and pragmatic results. Our embassies are strategic platforms tasked with fast-tracking our national development agenda through the promotion of trade, investment, and tourism. In strict liaison with relevant offices back home, our diplomats must serve as launchpads that protect Zimbabwe's national interests based on win-win benefits. While we maintain our stance that Zimbabwe is a friend to all and an enemy to none, we are also making significant diplomatic milestones. Our successful election to the UN Security Council proves that we are a respected member of the international community. Furthermore, Zimbabwe will proudly host the AfCFTA Council of Ministers in 2027. As we assume leadership roles like the COMESA Chairmanship, we must carry the collective duty of leaving no one and no place behind. Crucially, I have challenged the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to review our National Diaspora Policy. Our diplomats must show deep humanity to all Zimbabweans visiting or living near our missions. The diaspora is a vital pillar in building our country, and they deserve our utmost support. Every mission must play its part through timely reporting and strategic vigilance against emerging threats. Zimbabwe remains open for business, and global capital is safe here. As our Ambassadors return to their stations, let us remain united in our commitment to economic diplomacy and national development. #ZimbabweIsOpenForBusiness #DiplomacyForResults #LeavingNoOneBehind #NyikaInovakwaNeveneVayo