Discipline is the foundation for success in the performance of Air Force of Zimbabwe roles, AFZ Commander Air Marshal Jacob Nzvede told the pass out parade of the potential officers’ course 1/2023 at Josiah Tungamirai Air Base yesterday.
Air Marshal Nzvede said military training and duties demanded that all officers and members were disciplined and that as the graduates of the course joined the leadership structures, they would always find some few individuals who are found wanting in some areas regarding discipline.
“It is, therefore, your responsibility to counsel the individuals and where there is no change in behaviour, disciplinary measures should be taken to set a good example for others,” Air Marshal Nzvede said.
“The nation is currently seized with efforts to curb the scourge of alcohol and substance abuse, especially among the youth. The air force is a part of the larger community, hence I urge you to look out for signs of such vices among the men and women you are going to lead.
“The Air Force of Zimbabwe has adopted a zero tolerance to drugs because the use of such substances in the military poses serious threats to national security. Another vice that I would want you to pay special attention to is the misuse and abuse of social media.”
It was the responsibility of leaders at all levels to empower those under their command to be media literate in this information age. In using social media, it was important for all officers and members to be aware of the security implications of the content they created and consumed.
Air Marshal Nzvede said that it was essential that the officers had a set of skills to verify the authenticity of information before spreading falsehoods that might cause panic and other threats to national security.
“As we celebrate the successful completion of this course, I am aware that there were many challenges that the base and the school faced. I want to take this opportunity to commend the Base Commander, the Commandant School of Flying Training and their supporting staff for not only enduring the hardships but finding local solutions to achieve the set objectives.
“The operations of the base and conduct of training programmes would also not be possible without the enormous support that the base continues to receive from the leadership and people of Gweru as well as the business community.
My plea is that this relationship continues to grow and translate into partnerships in development efforts in the areas of mutual interest.”
