By GIDEON NYENDWA
THE Zambia Air Force (ZAF) says it is committed towards supporting efforts towards regional peace by contributing peacekeepers to conflict stressed countries in the region.
Lieutenant-General Colin Barry, the Zambia Air Force Commander has pledged to continue working within the SADC frameworks and mechanisms as they continue with efforts to preserve and maintain peace and stability in the region.
He was speaking during the SADC mission in Mozambique medals parade held at ZAF headquarters base in Lusaka yesterday.
He said ZAF would continue to modernise towards improving the ability to respond to traditional and non-traditional threats and stand ready to maintain domestic and regional security, support humanitarian and relief operations as well as support peace operations, such as the Peace Support Operation in Mozambique.
Lt-Gen Barry expressed gratitude to the recipients of the SADC medals for their service to the people of the Cabo Delgado Region of northern Mozambique.
“Your selfless service and dedication to duty have contributed immensely to stability not only in Mozambique but to the region as a whole,” he said.
He also said his Command would continue to make all efforts to improve personnel welfare and provide all the necessary incentives for a well-motivated force.
Lt-Gen Barry said the air force would continue to address issues of conditions of service and remuneration, access to affordable financing, appropriate equipment and office accommodation, kitting, messing facilities and accessible health.
He said in the view to address issues of conditions of service the Memorandum of Understanding and partnership between the Zambia Defence Force and Public Service Micro Finance Company (PSMFC) providing for the access of affordable agro products and services will give personnel capacity to participate in agricultural activities and contribute to national food security.
Lt-Gen Barry said it was worth noting that service personnel could now access agro services and products on the Agro Enhanced Asset plus loan scheme at a more flexible repayment rates as low as nine percent.
