President Mnangagwa Praises Outgoing ZDF Commander as New Leader Takes Charge

 By Believe Nyakudjara

Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), President Emmerson Mnangagwa, praised outgoing Commander General Phillip Valerio Sibanda for his 51 years of unwavering loyalty and steadfast patriotism.

Speaking at the farewell, handover, and takeover parade at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare on November 24, the President commended General Sibanda for serving the nation with dignity, discipline, and integrity, setting a high standard for others to follow.

“He has served with dignity, discipline, and integrity,” said President Mnangagwa. “Throughout his career, General Sibanda has consistently demonstrated unflinching loyalty and patriotism, as well as unparalleled discipline and professionalism, both as a soldier and a son of Zimbabwe. His ethics and values are worthy of emulation across the Defence Forces.”

General Phillip Valerio Sibanda officially handed over command to General Emmanuel Matatu in a colorful ceremony marked by meaningful symbolism. Two jets from the Air Force flew overhead—one changed course to signal General Sibanda’s departure, while the other flew straight, representing the ongoing service of the ZDF. The two generals exchanged the ZDF colors and signed the handover and takeover certificates in the presence of President Mnangagwa, who served as the Chief Witnessing Officer.

The President encouraged the incoming commander to uphold these standards and expressed confidence that General Emmanuel Matatu is prepared to lead the ZDF with professionalism and dedication. “I believe you are ready for this important role and will lead the ZDF well,” he stated. “I am confident that you are equal to the task and will use your vast experience to effectively and professionally lead the ZDF, just as your predecessor did.”

In his farewell address, General Sibanda stated that he will always consider the ZDF his second home. He reflected on his military history, from joining the liberation struggle to being attested into the ZDF, culminating in his retirement after 51 years of service.

"I want to thank the members of the ZDF who supported me during my service, and I express my gratitude to President Mnangagwa for appointing me Commander of the ZDF," he said. "As I retire to civilian life, I will always regard the ZDF as my second home. As the adage goes, you can take the uniform off a soldier, but you cannot take the soldier out of me."

He expressed satisfaction in leaving the ZDF intact, stating, "I depart after 51 years in uniform, having served in various capacities to the best of my ability, and I have never brought the ZDF or my country into disrepute. I have fought a good fight."

The parade followed General Sibanda's retirement and Lieutenant-General Matatu's promotion to the rank of General. The President also promoted Major-General Asher Walter Tapfumaneyi to the rank of Lieutenant-General, effective November 25, 2025, and subsequently appointed him Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army, taking over from General Matatu.

In his acceptance speech, General Matatu thanked everyone for trusting him with this important role. He promised to build on General Sibanda's successes and maintain the ZDF's discipline and professionalism. “I want to thank General Sibanda for setting high standards,” he said. “I will follow in the footsteps of leaders like General Chiwenga and General Sibanda, who mentored me throughout my career. I remain committed to serving our country selflessly and helping Zimbabwe achieve an upper middle-class income economy."

Since attaining independence in 1980, changes in the command of the Defence Forces have marked significant moments for the country. The Zimbabwe Defence Forces were established by uniting former liberation fighters with the Rhodesian military, creating a cohesive force dedicated to protecting the nation.

Over the years, several commanders have led the ZDF, each significantly contributing to its growth and professionalism. General Vitalis Zvinavashe was one of the early leaders who helped define the military’s role in national security and development. Subsequently, General Constantine Chiwenga commanded during challenging times and later became Zimbabwe’s Vice President.

General Phillip Valerio Sibanda commanded for over two decades, recognized for his discipline and commitment to modernizing the Defence Forces. His lengthy tenure provided stability and established high standards for those who followed.

The recent handover to General Emmanuel Matatu upholds the tradition of respectful and peaceful leadership transitions. Each new commander builds upon the efforts of their predecessors, ensuring that the Defence Forces remain strong, disciplined, and prepared to serve Zimbabwe.