Zambia: Zambia National Army has trained 1,761 female regular soldiers during a Lukanga Army Battle Training Area in Kapiri Mposhi district. These soldiers were part of Intake 37 of 2023 of Zambia Army
The Minister of Defence, Ambrose Lufuma, was present at the pass-out parade of the army officers. He noted that government will implement recruitment on an annual basis.
Lufuma claimed that through the appointment of the 16761 female soldiers, the Zambia Army wants to improve the efficiency of the army. This in turn will help in safeguarding the Territorial Integrity of the nation.
The leaders have shared that they are dedicated to ensuring that the defense sector of the nation remains strong.
The recruitment of the officers will also help the country promote the feelings of unity among the people of the nation. He highlighted that recruiting from all ten provinces is a proof of national unity.
He added that the unity of the nation is key to fostering peace, security and stability. He added that peace and stability are prerequisites to socio-economic development.
On the other hand, Lieutenant General Sitali Dennis Commander Zambia Army, Alibuzwi, appreciated the government. He thanked them for giving the army financial support to carry out the training of the largest number of female soldiers.
Alibuzwi applauded the Commandant- Military Establishment of Zambia (MILTEZ) for their role in making the appointment possible. MILTEZ and the team trained the female soldiers despite facing challenges of infrastructure, land encroachment and lack of concrete or bituminous parade square.
The Commander urged the newly graduated female soldiers to learn from the serving female soldiers. He praised the women solciers, saying that they have performed well in local and international operations.
Meanwhile, MILTEZ Commandant Brigadier General Hedon Mwilu thanked the command for the strategic guidance and support throughout the train, ing process.
Further, Recruit Training Centre Commanding Officer, Colonel Mbozi Soonga claimed the female soldiers who have graduated from Kapiri Mposhi training are ready to contribute to national and regional peace.
The event attracted thousands of guests including traditional leaders, government officials and family members.