New ZNA Commander Sworn In

By Antony Moyo

Zimbabwe National Army gets new commander as Lt Gen Tapfumanei takes helm.

In a ceremony attended by top military officials, Lt Gen Asher Walter Tapfumanei officially took over as Zimbabwe National Army commander from Lt Gen Emmanuel Matatu. 

The handover took place at Charles Gumbo Barracks in Harare on November 27, 2025.

Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri presided over the event, emphasizing the challenges ahead for the new commander. "Please take heed that the responsibilities vested on you are really challenging. You are expected to shape the future of the ZNA from now on," she said.

Lt Gen Tapfumanei promised to build on the foundation laid by his predecessor saying, "We will not fight the past enemy, the enemy is in the future." 

He assured troops of government support and emphasized the need for discipline and professionalism.

The outgoing commander, Lt Gen Matatu, urged unity and support for the new commander, saying "Let us accept the change and embrace the future. Dedication and hard work are the foundation of future success."