HH Wants Army in Economic Sectors

By Masauso Mkwayaya

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says government is structuring programmes that will allow the military to participate more in economic and productive sectors.

President HICHILEMA says the military should utilise their expertise and discipline to deliver services in infrastructure development and agriculture, among others.

He said this during the pass out of 528 officer cadets at the Military Training Establishment of Zambia -MILTEZ- in Kabwe, Central province.

President HICHILEMA also tasked the military to prioritise the inclusion of technology in training, saying the infusion will help ensure operations become more efficient.

And President HICHILEMA has pledged to support initiatives in the military, meant to improve the welfare of service men and women, such as the improvement of the parade square and other training infrastructure at the institution.

He further advised the new cadets, who included 175 females, to put national interest above themselves.

Speaking at the same event, Defence Minister, AMBROSE LUFUMA said his Ministry will continue to champion peace, stability, and security, as these are prerequisites for development.

Mr. LUFUMA tasked the officers to uphold national values and principles to contribute to peace and development.

And Zambia Army Commander, Lieutenant-General GEOFFREY ZYEELE thanked President HICHILEMA for the financial and material support rendered to the school during training.

General ZYEELE urged the cadets to be professional and work hard for the safety and development of the country.

He also disclosed that the Zambia Army planted 100,000 hectares of maize to contribute to national food security and has also started cattle rearing with over 500 animals.

Meanwhile, Military Training Establishment of Zambia -MILTEZ- Commandant, Brigadier General HEDON MWILU said the 528 cadets underwent military training for over a year.

General MWILU said 17 officer cadets are from 7 countries in Africa.