ZAMBIA Air Force (ZAF) deputy commander and chief of air staff (COAIRS) major general Henry Chiwaya says true national security does not start in the skies or on the battlefield, but with how a nation treats and protects its children.
Maj Gen Chiwaya said this today when he led a senior ZAF delegation to Kwatu Children’s Home in Livingstone, where the Air Force donated assorted foodstuffs, cleaning materials and other essential supplies to the vulnerable children as a way of celebrating New Year.
The visit brought together senior officers from ZAF Headquarters, the Station Commander ZAF Livingstone, members of the District Operations Committee, Kwatu Children’s Home management and staff and dozens of excited children who welcomed the new year with smiles.
Speaking during the hand over, Maj Gen Chiwaya said beginning the year with the most vulnerable members of society was both symbolic and intentional.
“The start of a new year gives us an opportunity to reflect, to give thanks and to renew our commitment to caring for one another,” he said.
He said while the Zambia Air Force remains firm in its constitutional mandate of defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, it equally recognises that lasting peace and security begin with nurturing citizens from a young age.
“Beyond our primary mandate, we recognise that true national security begins with caring for our people, especially our children,” Maj Gen Chiwaya said.
He described children’s homes such as Kwatu as places of safety, healing and belonging, where children who have lost parents or family support are given a chance to dream again.
“These are not just facilities; they are true homes where children are nurtured, guided and prepared to become responsible citizens of tomorrow,” he said.
Maj Gen Chiwaya commended the management and staff of Kwatu Children’s Home for their sacrifice and dedication, describing them as unsung heroes quietly shaping the future of the nation.
“You are not only caregivers. You are parents, teachers, protectors and role models. What you are doing here is nation-building at its purest form,” he said.
He said the donated items were meant to improve daily living conditions, promote hygiene and restore dignity and comfort to the children.
By George Musonda
Picture credit: ZAF
Kalemba January 1, 2026
