THE Zambia Air Force (ZAF) has recorded remarkable progress this year, with fleet serviceability improving by more than 50 percent, Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma has revealed.
Speaking last night during the 2025 Zambia Air Force Annual Ball held at Chamba Valley Officers’ Mess in Lusaka, Lufuma said the achievement was a result of disciplined leadership and efficient use of resources under the command of Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni.
“The improvement in fleet serviceability demonstrates sound leadership, professionalism, and the relentless commitment of the ZAF command, technical teams, and operational personnel,” Lufuma said.
He said the ball was more than just a celebration but a moment to reflect on the Air Force’s contributions to national security, development,and humanitarian efforts.
“The Zambia Air Force has continued to distinguish itself not only as the guardian of our skies but also as a key partner in national development,” Lufuma said.
The Defence Minister cited ZAF’s response to the Kafue River environmental crisis through Operation Sungulula, where Air Force personnel and aircraft were deployed to neutralize a dangerous acid spill.
He said the swift intervention protected both the environment and the livelihoods of many Zambians.
Similarly, ZAF’s efforts to combat the locust infestation in Western Province under Operation Kubulaya II were praised.
“Every hectare sprayed from the air is a hectare of crops saved for Zambian farmers. This shows the Air Force is ready to fight both traditional and emerging threats,” Lufuma said.
Lufuma also applauded the Air Force for maintaining high standards of accountability, noting that ZAF recorded zero audit queries in the Auditor General’s 2024 report.
Meanwhile, ZAF Commander Lieutenant General Oscar Nyoni In his remarks thanked the government for its support, saying it had strengthened the Air Force’s ability to secure Zambia’s airspace and support national development.
Lt Gen Nyoni said the Air Force remained committed to responding to both conventional and non-conventional threats, including emergencies, humanitarian crises, and food security challenges.
He promised that ZAF would continue engaging in initiatives that support national development without compromising its core mission as a combat-ready force.
“The Zambia Air Force is dedicated to executing the directives of the Commander-in-Chief while remaining professional, disciplined, and relevant to the nation’s development agenda,” Lt Gen Nyoni said.
The annual ball, held under the theme “Strength in Unity: Combating All Threats Through Effective Leadership, Personnel Welfare, Combat Readiness and Food Security,” brought together senior government officials, defence and security chiefs, Air Force officers, and their families.
By George Musonda
Kalemba December 27, 2025
