By Patience Gondo
THE Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) has announced a nationwide recruitment drive for general duty soldiers, calling on young Zimbabweans to apply between April 30 and May 7, 2026.
In a statement, the army said suitably qualified candidates who are Zimbabwean citizens are invited to join the force, with applications being received at formation headquarters and selected venues across all provinces.
Applicants are required to have at least five ‘O’ Level passes with a grade C or better, be aged between 18 and 22 years, and meet strict physical and medical fitness standards.
Prospective recruits must also be single, with a minimum height of 1.65 metres for males and 1.55 metres for females. Weight requirements are set at not less than 55 kilograms for men and 53 kilograms for women.
“The Zimbabwe National Army is looking for disciplined, committed and physically fit young men and women who are ready to serve their country with dedication,” the ZNA read.
Candidates are expected to submit handwritten application letters accompanied by certified copies of academic certificates, national identity documents and birth certificates.
The army also said the need for applicants to include traceable references and contact details.
Provincial recruitment centres have been designated across the country, including Mailkari Barracks in Matabeleland North, Imbizo Barracks in Bulawayo, Kaguvi Barracks in Mashonaland East, Herbert Chitepo Barracks in Manicaland, Josiah Magama Tongogara Barracks in Masvingo, Inkomo Barracks in Mashonaland West, and Commando Barracks in Mashonaland Central, among others.
Officials said the recruitment exercise is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the army’s ranks and maintain national security readiness.
“This recruitment process is transparent and merit-based. We urge all applicants to follow the correct procedures and submit their applications within the stipulated timeframe,” the ZNA said.
The army warned members of the public against falling prey to fraudsters, saying it does not charge any fees or use third parties during the recruitment process.
“The ZNA does not engage agents or middlemen. Anyone demanding payment in exchange for recruitment should be reported immediately,”
Successful candidates will benefit from a range of incentives, including medical and dental cover, housing and transport allowances, and generous leave conditions.
For further inquiries, applicants who face challenges in contacting provincial centres have been advised to reach out to the ZNA Recruiting Office in Harare.
The recruitment drive is expected to attract thousands of young people seeking to build careers in the defence forces while serving the nation.