THE grounds of Charles Joseph Nyirenda Training School in Kafue turned into a military fashion runway yesterday as Zambia National Service (ZNS) officer cadets, dressed in green uniforms, marched in style to the beat of drums and national pride, as they waited to be commissioned by President Hakainde Hichilema.
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The event, which attracted hundreds of spectators, government officials and proud families, was a colourful and disciplined display of military excellence as the cadets showcased months of rigorous training through sharp, coordinated moves and formations.
Speaking during the commissioning parade of 400 officer cadets Intake 06/2024, President Hichilema urged newly commissioned Zambia National Service (ZNS) officers to carry discipline, duty, and national values as their compass in their journey of serving the country.
President Hichilema said Zambia’s transformation into a prosperous nation depends heavily on disciplined and hardworking citizens, especially those in uniform.
“Discipline in life is indispensable,” President Hichilema said.
“You can see, when people behave in an indisciplined manner, they slowly destroy their lives. Duty and values are critical to anything that we do.”
The Head of State said military training, whether voluntary or mandatory must be embraced by young people as it instills responsibility and a strong work ethic needed in everyday life.
The President added that ZNS, under his administration, had embraced a new mindset that focuses on productivity through agriculture, infrastructure development and innovation and also urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold that vision.
President Hichilema further thanked the ZNS command for their continued efforts in turning recruits into productive officers, and highlighted the importance of the defence force in contributing to food security and economic development.
He also acknowledged the loss of one cadet during training and sent his heartfelt condolences to the family and the nation.
Under his watch, he said, Zambia’s defence forces will continue to be a force not just of protection but of productivity, peace and progress.
And Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma said the Zambia Defence Force will leverage on discipline and numerical strength to contribute to national development especially in agriculture, infrastructure and manufacturing sectors.
Meanwhile, Zambia National Service Commander Lieutenant General Maliti Solochi said ZNS is working with its sister services to achieve the two million metric tonnes production of maize target which President Hichilema set for the Zambia Defence Force.
Lt Gen Solochi says the services are working hard to increase production so that by 2028, the target can be met.
He added that ZNS is also equipping the Builders Brigade so that it can meet the construction demand across the country.
Story and Pictures by George Musonda
Kalemba August 16, 2025
