Harare, March 27, 2025 – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has appointed Major General Emmanuel Matatu as the new Commander of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA), promoting him to the rank of Lieutenant General with immediate effect.
The appointment was announced in an official press statement issued by Chief Secretary to the President and Cabinet, Dr. M. Rushwaya. The decision was made in accordance with Section 216(2) of the Zimbabwean Constitution and the Defence Act (Chapter 11:02).
Lieutenant General Matatu replaces General Anselem Sanyatwe, who was today sworn in as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Sports. General Sanyatwe had been at the helm of the ZNA since his appointment in 2019. His move to a ministerial position marks a significant transition in the country’s military and political leadership.
The new army commander, Lt. Gen. Matatu, is expected to oversee military operations and uphold national security amid evolving regional and global security dynamics. His leadership will be crucial in maintaining stability and discipline within the armed forces.
