MINISTER of Defence Ambrose Lufuma says good quality professional military education and training for the defence force is critical for the country’s economic recovery.
He says this is because development can only flourish where there is peace and stability.
He added that this can only be achieved with a professional defense force that is capable of safeguarding the territorial integrity of the Country, while creating an enabling and secure environment for development.
“We are reconstructing the economy, as such, we need to mobilise all the skills, talents and ideas from the citizenry across the country for us to harness our potential to find solutions that will help us move forward,” he said.
The Minister said this during the graduation ceremony for the 26th Command and Staff Course of the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC).
The ceremony was held at the Zambia National Service Chamba Valley Officers Mess in Lusaka.
ZANIS reports that a total of 84 students, among them 23 from other countries within the continent and beyond, graduated at the ceremony. The Countries include Malawi, Botswana, Namibia, Eswatini, Lesotho, Kenya, Mozambique, Rwanda and Sri Lanka.
And Mr Lufuma has commended the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) for providing quality Military education not only to local officers but those coming from other countries and beyond.
He said this has raised the College’s profile internationally, adding that such interactions promote regional and international peace and integration.
He added that Zambia has always been a beacon of peace in the region and beyond adding that the government therefore recognises the need for good relations with its neighbors.
“This kind of military education for military officers from the SADC region and other friendly nations alongside their Zambian counterparts is highly commendable,” the Minister said.
Meanwhile, DSCSC Commandant Brigadier General Phillimon Samatamba thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for responding to the College’s plea by constructing a modern structure with a bigger capacity.
“We are extremely excited and looking forward to shifting to the new premises,” he said.
