Lieutenant General Matatu Gives His First Pass-Out Address As ZNA Commander

Recently appointed Lieutenant General Matatu gave his first pass-out parade address as the ZNA Commander.

Recent graduates from the Zimbabwe National Army training program formally recognised the appointment of their new commanding officer during a significant passing-out parade this week.

The ceremony marked Lieutenant General Emmanuel Matatu’s inaugural official address as Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA). Before his keynote speech to the 489 graduating recruits, parade leader Lieutenant Colonel Tapiwa Makaya orchestrated a special tribute to the newly promoted officer.

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Lieutenant General Matatu Gives His First Pass-Out Address As ZNA Commander-Image Source@herald

“On behalf of Recruit Training Depot Course 38A/01/24, we extend our heartfelt congratulations on your promotion to Lieutenant General and appointment as ZNA Commander. We pledge our support and wish you divine wisdom and steadfast leadership as you guide our national defense force forward,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Makaya during the ceremonial address.

New Leadership Era for Zimbabwe’s Armed Forces

President Emmerson Mnangagwa appointed Lieutenant General Matatu to his prestigious position in late March 2025, marking a new chapter in Zimbabwe’s military leadership.

The Imbizo Barracks event represented the first major public engagement for the new commander since assuming his elevated role.

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The passing-out parade serves as both a graduation ceremony for new recruits and an important military tradition, showcasing the discipline and preparedness of Zimbabwe’s armed forces. Observers noted the special significance of this particular event as it introduced the army’s newest members to their freshly appointed commander.

The reception from both new graduates and established officers showed a strong institutional support for Lieutenant General Matatu as he begins his tenure leading one of southern Africa’s most respected defense forces.