The Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Defence, Home Affairs and Security Services has urged government to explore ways of enabling the Zimbabwe Defence Forces to participate in national infrastructure development projects as part of broader efforts to enhance self-sustainability within the defence sector.
In its observations, the Committee noted that “the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, much like the Zimbabwe Republic Police, primarily operates as a service provider, with limited involvement in revenue-generating activities.” It recommended that Treasury consider allowing the ZDF to “utilise its skilled and trained manpower in key national development projects such as road construction and rehabilitation, as well as the building of institutional accommodation.”
The Committee further proposed that the ZDF be “given the opportunity to participate or compete for government tenders in areas such as road rehabilitation programmes, and the construction of schools, hospitals, and institutional infrastructure.” Lawmakers said this would allow the Defence Forces to mobilise internal resources, reduce dependence on Treasury allocations, and contribute directly to the country’s infrastructure drive.
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Meanwhile, Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe, made a strong appeal for improved budgetary support to transform the living conditions of police officers. He described the current state of police accommodation as unacceptable. “Many officers are still sharing housing accommodation and dividing rooms with curtains,” he said, adding that the situation was “deplorable and not befitting officers who serve and protect the nation.”
Kazembe stressed that “the welfare of police officers must be prioritized, as decent living conditions are key to enhancing morale, discipline, and professionalism within the force.” He called for adequate funding to enable the construction of modern housing units to restore dignity to members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
Providing an update on crime and law enforcement, Hon. Kazembe revealed that the Ministry had recovered “US$15 million out of US$64 million lost to armed robberies,” surpassing its initial 15% recovery target by reaching 24%. He also announced the rollout of “an electronic crime management system and the deployment of digital infrastructure across police stations to enhance operational efficiency and modernize law enforcement.”
On the defence front, Minister of Defence Hon. Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri emphasized the importance of continued investment in the nation’s security capabilities. “Peace is hard won and demands sustained investment in national defence,” she said, underscoring the need to strengthen the Air Force and Army infrastructure to counter emerging threats.
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