President Hakainde Hichilema officiated at the Commissioning Parade for Officer Cadets Intake 25 of 2023 and Specialist Officer Cadets Intake 10 of 2024 at the Military Training Establishment of Zambia (MILTEZ) in Kabwe, marking a significant milestone in the nation’s defence and security sector.
The ceremony, described by the President as a “momentous occasion,” celebrated the successful completion of rigorous military training by the cadets, who were praised for their discipline, perseverance, and commitment to national service.
Notably, among the commissioned officers are 175 female cadets who underwent the same intensive training regimen as their male counterparts. Their graduation, President Hichilema said, is a powerful affirmation of his administration’s unwavering commitment to promoting gender balance and inclusion within the Defence and Security Services.
“Their accomplishment is not only a triumph of personal determination but also a national achievement in our collective journey toward equality,” President Hichilema stated in his address.
The President urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and loyalty as they assume their duties in the service of the Republic.
“The flag you now salute must be defended with courage, honour, and a deep sense of duty,” he said.
He also commended the Zambia Army leadership and command structure for their dedication and patriotism, applauding their role in shaping the next generation of military leaders.
“To the newly commissioned officers, we extend our heartfelt congratulations and wish you strength, success, and steadfastness as you embark on this noble journey of service to our great nation,” he concluded.
The event reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to strengthening Zambia’s defence capabilities while fostering values of equity, professionalism, and national pride within the armed forces.
LT should have included the percentage of women and a comparison with the last pass-out parade. It would also be interesting to see the names of all graduates and their home provinces! That’s the best way to show “equality”!
I have always opposed the mass employment of soldiers.T think resources must be allocated to employing law enforcement personnel.The police,immigration,DEC.ACC,FIS and even ZAWA are in dire need of adequate staffing and equipment to deal effectively with the ever escalating and sophisticating crime in Zambia
I also think that either Paul Mushindo or Kapasa Makasa universities be converted into institutions for advanced law enforcement studies to augment Lilayi and Sondela training schools
@ Mayo Mpapa
They are NOT ordinary people.. Wake up and learn that SAFETY of the soldiers is paramount.
Once you have accepted to have a military force, you also have to accept that you have to periodically recruit new faces. There’s simply no viable army, for example, without lieutenants and second lieutenants. Once the last set of lieutenants have become captains, it’s time to recruit new officer cadets. Young officers may be the least experienced but they’re the fittest physically and most combat-ready.
AAHHH that will account for all the blue lights and being forced off the road by most GRZ vehicles wanting to take advantage …
Just a question is his VP not allowed to preform some of these duties ??
Gender equality ?? then the VP should have done that to stress his point
BUT no as it was the forces he wanted to show who’s incharge
How much do these immaculately dressed gallant servicemen get paid? So many Zambians are living in poverty no wonder civil servants engage in corrupt practices .