Parliament has heard that Zimbabwe’s military is using “unserviceable and outdated equipment,” which might leave the nation’s security at risk due to a potential inability to adequately respond to unforeseen threats within its borders.
Speaking in his capacity as chair of the Defence, Home Affairs, Security Services, and War Veterans committee, Beitbridge East legislator Albert Nguluvhe claimed that military hardware such as cars, helicopters, planes, and other ground equipment was now outdated and overused at a 2024 pre-budget expectations indaba.
“The majority of military motor vehicles have been overused,” he said.
“New military equipment such as helicopters, aircrafts and other ground equipment is required to enhance the capability of the organization to deal with any situation in times of unpredictable calamities.
“Existing equipment will indeed, become unserviceable.”
Nguluvhe continued, “The committee begged the treasury to mobilize resources for the purchase of new equipment and maintenance of vehicles, technical and office equipment, as well as the acquisition of fuel, oils, and lubricants. As a legislator, Nguluvhe enjoys inside knowledge of the workings of the Zimbabwean military.
“Military procurement allows the ZDF to acquire the most appropriate equipment, technology and systems.
“Through procurement, the ZDF can upgrade its operational platforms, replace antiquated equipment and stay technologically current.
“This is crucial for maintaining a modern, effective and capable defense force that can repel attendant security threats.
“Regrettably, this area has not received enough attention over the years as reflected by unserviceable and outdated equipment in ZDF’s inventory.”
The Zanu PF lawmaker said “a funded and equipped defense force acts as a deterrent against potential adversaries”.
“This will help to deter potential threats and protect the country`s citizens and borders from external aggression.
“An allocation of ZWL16,036 billion or 24.88 percent that was made for maintenance of physical infrastructure against a bid of ZWL64,642 billion can hardly meet the 2024 requirement.
“The ZWL93,68 billion allocated for fuel, oil and lubricants against a bid of ZWL217,17 billion need an upward review given the nature of unavoidability of most ZDF operations and related activities.”
According to media reports from Zimbabwe in 2021, inadequate air traffic management had allowed private planes to enter and exit the Robert Gabriel Mugabe (RGM) International Airport and other Zimbabwean flight ports undetected.
When the late President Robert Mugabe was in office, the Zimbabwean military used to receive the largest share of funding from the government.
