President Mnangagwa yesterday handed over 102 vehicles to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), in a development aimed at enhancing the operational capacity and welfare of military personnel across the country.
The handover, held in Harare, marks the largest single delivery of service vehicles to the ZDF within a short period and is part of a broader programme under the Presidential Vehicle Scheme. In total, more than 700 vehicles including buses to support intra- and inter-city troop movements are expected to be delivered by 2026.
Speaking at the event, President Mnangagwa said the initiative demonstrates Government’s continued commitment to the well-being of defence personnel and the modernisation of the security sector.
“These vehicles are not just a means of transport. They are a statement of the respect and value we place on the men and women who defend our sovereignty and peace,” he said.
The vehicles, classified as Personal Issue Service Vehicles, are allocated to senior officers, some of whom had gone years without receiving their entitled service vehicles. While initially used for official duties, the vehicles may be purchased by the officers after a set period, in line with Government policy.
The programme also includes provisions for retired senior officers, addressing long-standing gaps in resource allocation and fulfilling pledges made during the Zimbabwe Defence Forces Day commemorations in August 2025.
“This initiative corrects past oversights and ensures that no senior officer is left behind, whether in active service or retirement,” the President added.
The vehicle provision also fulfils a promise made by the Head of State in December 2024, and reflects broader efforts by the Second Republic to strengthen national institutions under Vision 2030.
Defence and War Veterans Affairs Minister, Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, welcomed the gesture, describing it as a morale boost for the forces.
“This handover is historic, not only in size but in symbolism. It boosts morale and strengthens the operational capacity of our defence forces,” she said.
The remaining vehicles will be delivered in phases through 2026, further reinforcing the Government’s commitment to a well-resourced and professional defence establishment.
