• In line with IWD, Zambia gives well-deserved accolades to female soldiers.

• Plans are underway to start promoting more women to platoon commander positions.

• A female soldier was promoted from Lance to Corporal during the event.

The air is strong with the celebration of women all over the world, efforts are being acknowledged and they are being given their well-deserved accolades.

In this same vein, the Zambian Army Commander, Sitali Dennis Alibuzwi has honoured multi-talented soldier Priscilla Katoba and 28 others for their enormous contribution to the military. He honoured both the serving and retired for their outstanding contribution.

The Zambia Army director of public relations and foreign liaison Martin Liyungu while giving a statement said that the women have been honoured in recognition of their leadership, academic and professional achievements, and contributions to the army.

This recognition and award were given to them on the eve of International Women’s Day where Lt. Gen. Alibuzwi acknowledged the enormousness of their service and how important it is to honour them for this exemplary service to the nation. He pointed out how women only used to be involved in support roles but the resolution to elevate women officers and soldiers into decision-making positions is steadfast. He also pointed out that the command acknowledges the contributions of women in uniform to the army during the award-giving ceremony at Army headquarters in Lusaka on Friday, he then reiterated the command’s consideration to start recruiting female forces officers and soldiers as soon as the necessary infrastructure is put in place.

He stated that plans are also underway to start promoting more women to platoon commander positions. During the award-giving ceremony dubbed ‘Recognising the Contribution of Women to the Zambia Army’, Lt Gen Alibuzwi also promoted one soldier, Felistus Mambwe from private to Lance Corporal. “I am proud to say that today, all roles are open to women in the Zambia Army, except the Special Forces core, which is being considered.

“The command is proud of all women who have realised their potential while serving the nation and have demonstrated outstanding professionalism,” Lt Gen. Alibuzwi said.

Speaking at the same event, Col. Katoba, Deputy Director General of Sports, Commerce, and Community Services thanked the command for dedicating the day to women to celebrate themselves. Named the role model for lady officers of the Zambia Army, Col. Katoba said women in uniform should not only be celebrated with ‘lip service,’ but their accomplishments should also be recognised as the Zambia Army has done.