President Mnangagwa hails ZRP graduates, calls for professionalism and integrity
By Tinashe Mukori
Harare, Zimbabwe – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has commended the latest cohort of Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) recruits, urging them to uphold professionalism, discipline, and patriotism as they embark on their law enforcement careers. Speaking at the 2025 ZRP Recruit Graduation Ceremony at Mkushi Police Academy on February 27, the President emphasized the critical role of the police force in maintaining national security and stability.
The event marked the graduation of 907 recruits, comprising 624 males and 283 females, drawn from all ten provinces. President Mnangagwa lauded this representation, noting that it aligns with his administration’s devolution and decentralization agenda, ensuring inclusivity across the country.
“This graduation is a testament to our commitment to leaving no one and no place behind,” the President remarked. “The days when physical height and stamina were the primary requirements for policing are long gone. Today’s law enforcement demands higher levels of knowledge and broader skill sets.”
Honoring the liberation legacy
The President reflected on the significance of the venue, Mkushi Police Academy, renamed from Morris Depot in 2023 to honor the bravery of Zimbabwe’s liberation war heroes. He specifically paid tribute to the young women who perished in 1978 at the ZIPRA Mkushi Girls’ Camp in Zambia, urging the new officers to embody their courage and selflessness.
He further called on the ZRP to instill values of patriotism and nationalism, reminding the recruits that they are custodians of peace and stability. “Serve our motherland with honor, dignity, and distinction,” he urged.
Strengthening policing standards
Acknowledging the evolving nature of crime, President Mnangagwa emphasized the need for well-trained police officers. The recruits underwent a two-year diploma program covering various subjects, including criminal law, human rights, crime investigations, and community policing. He commended the inclusion of Zimbabwe’s history and civic education in the curriculum, stating that it fosters national identity and critical thinking skills.
The President also praised the ZRP’s partnerships with institutions of higher learning, such as the University of Zimbabwe and Bindura University of Science Education, which help enhance officers’ competencies. “Such collaborations should be strengthened at bilateral and multilateral levels to maintain excellence in policing,” he said.
Enhancing S+security and combatting crime
President Mnangagwa reaffirmed his government’s commitment to equipping the ZRP with the necessary resources, citing the recent procurement of 500 operational vehicles as a testament to this support. He also highlighted the importance of modern technology in crime fighting, noting the adoption of an Automated Fingerprint System to aid in investigations and convictions.
On national security concerns, the President directed the police to intensify efforts against drug and substance abuse, which he said is fueling violent crime and threatening societal stability. He urged the ZRP to collaborate with regional and international partners to dismantle drug cartels.
Additionally, he expressed alarm over the rise in road traffic accidents, revealing that 4,069 people lost their lives in 2024, nearly doubling the previous year’s fatalities. He called for swift implementation of the Electronic Traffic Management System to curb road carnage and urged citizens to respect traffic laws.
Tackling armed robberies and environmental crimes
The President also addressed the growing concern over armed robberies, instructing law enforcement to apprehend all perpetrators. He encouraged community cooperation in crime prevention efforts. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of environmental protection, directing the ZRP to enhance collaboration with agencies such as the Environmental Management Agency to combat illegal activities harming the environment.
A Call for integrity and discipline
In his closing remarks, President Mnangagwa reminded the graduates that discipline is a cornerstone of law enforcement. He warned against corruption, urging officers to maintain high levels of integrity and professionalism. “Shun corruption in all its forms. The image of the country and the ZRP rests upon your shoulders – guard it jealously,” he said.
Congratulating the recruits, he acknowledged the support of their families and guardians, encouraging them to serve the nation with dedication. “You are now part of Zimbabwe’s security fabric. Go forth and protect our nation with honesty and diligence,” he concluded.
The ceremony underscored the government’s commitment to building a well-equipped, professional, and disciplined police force as Zimbabwe progresses toward Vision 2030.
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