Lt Gen Zyeele Urges Special Forces to Be Nation’s Last Line of Defence
By Buffalo Reporter
Mpulungu
Commander Zambia Army, Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele has charged newly inducted Special Forces Operatives to remain the nation’s ultimate and unwavering line of defence, describing them as “the option of last resort” in safeguarding Zambia’s Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity.
Speaking during the Special Forces Induction Parade in Mpulungu yesterday, 10 July, 2026, Lt Gen Zyeele urged the elite Soldiers to execute their mandate with exemplary honour, unwavering professionalism and distinguished service to the nation.
He reaffirmed government’s steadfast commitment to ensuring the Special Forces Corps is comprehensively equipped and strategically supported to sustain operational adaptability, cultivate tactical initiative, and deliver decisive action in volatile and complex operational environments.
Lt Gen Zyeele further commended government for its consistent and robust support to the Zambia Army, noting that the Force’s progressive modernisation, rigorous training, and heightened operational readiness are a direct result of the State’s unwavering investment.
“The remarkable progress we continue to witness in our modernisation, training and operational readiness of our forces would not be possible without government’s unwavering commitment,” he stated.
The Commander Zambia Army indicated that specialised military training equips Soldiers to remain resolute, disciplined and mission-focused in austere and demanding environments.
He cited Zambia’s Contingent serving under the United Nations Multidimensional Integrated Stabilisation Mission in the Central African Republic (MINUSCA) as an example of such deployment.
“Our peacekeepers have demonstrated remarkable courage, resilience and unwavering commitment to the mandate entrusted to them. We reaffirm our dedication to serving the Republic of Zambia with loyalty, professionalism, and distinction.
In that direction, I again want to remind you that you are Special, and have joined our elite component of professionals trained to undertake complex, high-risk missions requiring exceptional physical fitness, discipline, and specialized expertise,” Lt Gen Zyeele said.
He also extended sincere appreciation to the instructors at the Special Forces Training School for imparting critical, world-class operational skills essential to strengthening national security and enhancing the country’s strategic defence capabilities.
The Commander Zambia Army also expressed sadness that, there are number of security entities including private security companies wearing Special Forces regalia. He said those who have not earned the colour through specialised training should not wear Special Forces regalia.
Meanwhile, Brigadier General Moses Shapwaya said the inducted Soldiers have successfully completed the arduous and comprehensive Special Forces training programme, acquiring the advanced knowledge and tactical proficiency required to decisively neutralise any threat to national security.
He reminded the newly inducted operatives that the specialised skills they have acquired are entrusted to them solely for the defence of the nation, and must be exercised with utmost discipline, integrity and accountability.
Brig Gen Shapwaya also expressed profound gratitude to Army Command for its steadfast support, and lauded the instructors for their exceptional dedication and professionalism throughout the demanding training regimen.
The induction parade culminated in a series of impressive tactical demonstrations by the newly inducted Special Forces operators, showcasing elite capabilities in precision marksmanship, rapid tactical raids, VIP protection, counter-terrorism operations and high-altitude mountaineering.
The induction ceremony was attended by Senior Chief Tafuna of the Lungu-Tabwa people of Mpulungu, Senior Chief Nsokolo of the Mambwe people of Mbala, representatives of the Service Chiefs, and senior Directors from the Ministry of Defence.