Soldiers showcase excellence at 2025 Inter-Formation Drill Competition
The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) demonstrated unity, discipline, and precision during the 2025 Inter-Formation Drill Competitions held at Headquarters 5 Infantry Brigade in Ngezi, where ten formations battled for top honours over a two-week period.
The competitions, which have become a permanent feature on the ZNA annual training calendar since their inception in 2013, culminated in a prize-giving ceremony on Friday, October 25. The event brought together 1,200 participants, including 250 women, who showcased their skill, teamwork, and endurance before senior army officials, guests, and cheering colleagues.
Guest of Honour, Commander ZNA Lieutenant General Emmanuel Matatu, commended the participants for their professionalism and dedication, urging them to take pride in their performance and remain committed to discipline and excellence.
“Your expertise ensured that this competition remained a fair and true measure of excellence,” said Lt Gen Matatu. “I encourage you to embrace this moment whether in winning or not and take pride in your performance, remembering that there is always room for improvement. Regardless of the outcome, competing is a victory in itself, a testament to your courage to be here today.”
He further exhorted soldiers to be guided by the theme of the 2025 Inter-Formation Drill Competitions, emphasizing the importance of focus, discipline, and integrity in all military duties.
As formations marched and executed their drills with precision under the blazing sun, the atmosphere was charged with pride and camaraderie. Umpires assessed each performance based on fairness and excellence, ensuring a transparent and merit-based contest.
HQ 1 Infantry Brigade emerged as the overall winner of the 11th edition of the competitions, dominating several categories including the Platoons, ZWS, Company Drill, and Pace Stick categories. LCpl N. Mutsambiwa from HQ 1 Infantry Brigade was named the Best Stick Man of the edition.
The HQ Presidential Guard also performed strongly, winning the Best Turned Out Company, Best Turned Out Platoon, and Women’s Platoon categories. LCpl T. Munamati from the same formation secured second position in the Stick Men category.
The host formation, HQ 5 Infantry Brigade, walked away with a consolation prize in the Best Drivers (Pace Stick) category, won by WO2 M. Gomo.
Winners received medals, shields, trophies, and cash prizes in local currency.
Lt Gen Matatu expressed pride in the men and women of the ZNA, commending their dedication and the high standards displayed throughout the competition.
“The commitment you have shown over these two weeks reflects the professionalism and readiness of our defence forces,” he said.
The Inter-Formation Drill Competitions continue to serve as a platform for promoting excellence, discipline, and esprit de corps within the Zimbabwe National Army.
