PRESIDENT HICHILEMA PROMOTES ZAMBIA ARMY OFFICERS

By Buffalo Reporter

Republican President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, Mr Hakainde Hichilema has promoted a number of deserving Zambia Army Officers and Warrant Officers Class Two (WOII) to their next ranks, in recognition of their service and dedication to duty.  

At a colourful rank insignia pinning-on ceremony held at Army Headquarters yesterday, 02 January,2026, Commander Zambia Army, Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele conveyed the President’s congratulatory message to the newly promoted General Grade Officers.

Lt Gen Zyeele urged the General Grade Officers to remain steadfast in their loyalty to the system and the government, while upholding the highest standards of military professionalism.  

Lt Gen Zyeele challenged both male and female General Grade Officers to demonstrate competence, leadership, and discipline commensurate with their elevated responsibilities.

One after another, the General Grade Officers, some donning red goudgets for the very first time, marched smartly before the Commander Zambia Army and Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, Major General Luswepo Sinyinza, who stood ready to pin the rank insignia  upon their shoulders.  

Notable among the promoted are four female Officers, one elevated to the rank of Brig Gen, and three to the rank of Colonel, a significant milestone in the Army’s ongoing pursuit of gender inclusivity and equal opportunity within the Defence Force.  

And Adjutant General Brigadier General Ben Banda has described the promotions as well deserved, attributing them to the Officers’ hard work, dedication, and consistent service.

Brig Gen Banda reminded the newly promoted to continue upholding the values of professionalism and discipline that define the Zambia Army.  

In a related development, a colourful parade was conducted at Arakan Barracks parade square, where newly promoted Officers from the rank of Lieutenant to Lieutenant Colonel, and Warrant Officers Class One were formally decorated with their new ranks.  

Brigadier General (Dr) Golden Ng’andwe, who graced the parade, congratulated the Officers and encouraged them to discharge their duties with diligence and renewed commitment to service. 

“Promotion comes with responsibility and it is expected of you to live up to the expectation of the appointing authority,” he said.