His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe and Commander-In-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Cde Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa has commended efforts made by the uniformed forces of providing equal opportunities for women within their services.

President Mnangagwa made the commendation while he was addressing guests at the prize presentation during the 2018 President’s Medal Shoot at Cleveland Ranges in Harare recently.

The consistent increase in the number of female participants at this event, which is previously the domain of males, is commendable. This is a further reflection of the security forces’ positive response to calls for gender equity, sensitivity and representation in all activities in our nation.

“I urge women to take this sport seriously and challenge them to match their male counterparts in competitions as well as performing the requisite roles of defending our hard won independence and territorial integrity,” he said.

Cde Mnangagwa also commended the security forces for their professionalism in the discharge of international assignments during peacekeeping operations.

“I am proud of the professionalism and high standard of discipline displayed by our uniformed forces which has enabled them to acquit themselves well on international assignments. Your performance in the Southern African Development Community, African Union and United Nations Peacekeeping and Observer Missions has always been matching or surpassing set standards.

“I implore you to continue to improve the good standards that you set. What you have achieved so far should never be compromised or negated through moments of lapse or unpatriotic acts,” said President Mnangagwa.

Meanwhile Private Rangarirai Gotosa of the Zimbabwe National Army 4 Brigade Masvingo was crowned the 2018 President’s Medal shoot champion ahead of ninety two participants who took part from the uniformed forces and civilian clubs. For his effort he walked away with $3000.00 cash, gold medal, President’s Medal Shoot medal, food hamper from National foods and blazer for top shootist from Pacific cigarettes.

The best female shotist was won by the Senior Security Aide in the President’s Department Blessing Mukombwe who won the Mbuya Nehanda trophy.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police overall best shootist was won by Constable Loice Regerayi of Support Unit.

Apart from firers being recognised, President Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Zimbabwe National Army Commander Lieutenant General Edzai Chimonyo, Air Force Commander Air Marshal Elson Moyo, ZRP Commissioner General Tandabantu Godwin Matanga, Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Commissioner Retired Major General Paradzai Zimondi, Director General  of the Central Intelligence Organisation Ambassador Isaac Moyo and Minister of Defence and War Veterans Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri received medals for contributions made in ensuring the competition was a success.