By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
BEITBRIDGE Members of Parliament have encouraged young people with necessary qualifications to apply for the ongoing recruitment of Regular Officer Cadets in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA).
The nationwide application process runs from 09 to 18 March 2026.
Youths from Beitbridge and the wider Matabeleland South province are encouraged to submit applications at the Matabeleland South Provincial Headquarters in Bulawayo District, located at Lookout Masuku Barracks.
Successful candidates will undergo officer training at the Zimbabwe Military Academy in Gweru before being commissioned as officers in the national army.
Speaking to Ziyah News Network, Beitbridge East legislator and Minister of State for Matabeleland South, Albert Nguluvhe, said the recruitment drive presents an opportunity for young people from all districts to participate in national service.
“The recruitment is open to every citizen of Zimbabwe. When we talk about the national army, it means the army must represent all districts as long as candidates meet the requirements,” said Nguluvhe.
He said there was employment security that come with joining the armed forces.
“The issue of employment is a challenge for many young people. When you join government service, you will have permanent employment, job security and a pension at the end of your service,” he said.
Nguluvhe said the improved pass rate in schools last year should encourage more eligible youths to apply.
“I am glad that last year’s pass rate was better than previous years, and I hope those young people will take advantage of this opportunity,” he said.
Beitbridge West Member of Parliament Thusani Ndou also called on school leavers to seize the opportunity.
“School leavers, this is your chance to become officer cadets. Go with the aim of defending your own country. We do not want to see all districts represented except Beitbridge,” said Ndou.
He said increased participation by youths from the district would help restore pride in the community as they rise through the ranks of the military.
“If you are disciplined, patriotic and ready to serve your country, consider applying to become an officer in the Zimbabwe National Army,” he said.
He urged families in Beitbridge to support their children in taking part in national development.
“Let our children be involved in government issues so that they defend our country. It is us, the children of Beitbridge, who will defend it,” he added.
Cadet Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
A minimum of six points at A-Level
At least five O-Level passes with Grade C or better, including English Language and Mathematics
Be aged between 18 and 22 years
Be single
Physical requirements include:
Minimum height:
Males – 1.65 metres
Females – 1.55 metres
Minimum weight:
Males – 55 kg
Females – 53 kg
Authorities say the recruitment programme aims to strengthen the officer corps while providing young Zimbabweans with an opportunity to serve their country, develop leadership skills and build long-term careers in the defence forces.
The ZNA has an active duty strength of approximately 25,000 to 30,000 personnel.
As the land warfare branch of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, it is supported by an additional 4,000 to 5,000 Air Force personnel and roughly 21,800 reserve personnel.
ZNA is known as one of the most disciplined force in Africa.