DEFENCE Minister Ambrose Lufuma has warned the general public against daring or provoking the newly inducted Special Forces Operators commonly known as Commandos, stating that the soldiers were weapons on their own.
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Officiating at the induction of intake 10 Special Forces of 2024 in Mbala yesterday, Lufuma observed that of late, the Ministry had noted the way the general public tried to dare or provoke military personnel to test if indeed they were capable of fighting.
The Minister warned that the Commandos were a special bid of operators with deadly inbuilt skills because of the intense training they undergo.
“Don’t dare these men, they are weapons on their own, you dare them at your own peril. Treat them as your own, they are here to defend mother Zambia, they are here for you. Let us ensure that as communities we support them,” said Lufuma.
The Minister pledged to continue supporting his soldiers and urged them to put the interest of the country as they serve Zambia.
“Hard times create strong men. I have no doubt that the training has transformed you into hard and strong men, ready to go there and do good.”
“It is government’s desire to see a Defence force that is grounded in professionalism, discipline and loyalty. Government is committed to providing all the necessary resources to ensure the training of our special forces.
He added that the Commandos will in times of peace, contribute to the productive ventures such as farming and humanitarian assistance.
And Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General Geoffrey Zyeele said Special Forces operators were the last guardian of national security in the country.
Lt Gen Zyeele urged the newly inducted troops to carry out their duties with responsibility and professionalism.
“Remember the weight of your responsibility that rests upon your shoulders. You are therefore my force influencers on behalf of the commander in chief. That is why you are special, that is why you are our special forces. You must be able to adapt and change quickly to different circumstances,” said the Commander.
“Follow and communicate effectively with your fellow soldiers. You have only one option left and that is to be special.”
3 Special Forces Group Commander Brigadier General Charles Swana said the Commandos had been transformed from regular soldiers to special troops.
Brig Gen Swana said the inductees had also proven that they had the moral character to be special forces who are meant to protect the country when it is not safe.
“They are ready to undertake any task and be deployed like yesterday anytime anywhere and under any conditions. We pledge our loyalty as special forces to the commander in chief and the constitution,” he said.
And Special Forces Training School Commandant Lieutenant Colonel Bright Tatile stated that the training wasn’t easy but those who had made it to the finals deserved to be celebrated.
Intake 10 of 2024 of the Special Forces of the Zambia Army underwent a grueling Special Forces training in Mbala for over nine months.
Story and pictures by Catherine Pule
Kalemba, May 3, 2025
