25-year-old Air Force officer makes history at graduation

Pretty Manyewe

President Emmerson Mnangagwa today presented wings to 15 members of the Air Force and commissioned the 68th training course at Josiah Tungamirai Airforce Base in Gweru.

Among the 15 graduands was a special military talent, whose outstanding display earned her a place in the country`s history.

Air Lieutenant Gamuchirai Mbigi became the first ever best student to be bestowed a sword of honour by the Commander in Chief, Zimbabwe Defense Forces, President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

This gave the lady cadet rights to command the parade.

This is an award given for exceptional performance.

Speaking to the crowd at the ceremony, the President was impressed by the strides women are taking in breaking new ground.

“I am pleased to note that for the first time in the history of the Airforce, the sword of honor has been presented to a female officer. The sword of honor is an award given for exceptional performance from basic Military to basic flying training. Let this be another inspiration to the girl child,” said President Mnangagwa.

Air Lieutenant Cadet Mbigi is the first female officer to receive the sword of honor.

The 15 graduands were part of the number 68 Pilot training course and the 13th Pilot training course to graduate from number 6 squadron.

They commenced on April 20, 2017 with other 25 officer cadets.

The course completed basic military training on December 17, 2016.

Flying training started in June 2018 and was completed in July 2021.

Despite the nation being in a Covid-19 pandemic, they successfully managed to graduate.

“I commend the Airforce of Zimbabwe for successfully carrying out the training program in the midst of a COVID-19 pandemic,” said President Mnangagwa, spelling out the role of a good Air Force in national development.

“A more capable, well resourced, versatile and battle ready Airforce is a fundamental part of the National Development Strategy (NDS1). The Government will continue to avail resources to support technical and operational requirements for the modernization of the Airforce,” said President Mnangagwa.