Former army commander Lt Gen Alibuzwi Bids Farewell!

After an illustrious career, spanning over 40 years, immediate past Commander Zambia Army, Lieutenant General Sitali Dennis Alibuzwi (Rtd) has officially bade farewell to the Army during a well organized “farewell parade “ which was held today, 15 November, 2024 at Army headquarters. Lt Gen Alibuzwi was honoured with a colorful parade mounted by Corps of the Zambia Army who showcased a splendid display of military drills.

Clad in his number one ceremonial uniform and a red sash emblazoned with “RT” to signify his retirement from the Zambia Army, accompanied by his wife, Stella, Lt Gen Alibuzwi first attended a thanksgiving church service at Army Chapel at Arakan Barracks.

At the chapel, the former Commander Zambia Army and his wife, who is also former Patron of the Army Ladies Association of Zambia (ALAZ), were presented with copies of the Holy Bible by Zambia Army Religious and Moral Services Director General, Brig Gen (Rev) Shadreck Mwale.

Brig Gen Mwale read from the book of 2 Corinthians 13:11-14, emphasising the importance of brotherly love.

At the Parade Square, Lt Gen Alibuzwi thanked the Republican President and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, Mr Hakainde Hichilema, for granting him the opportunity to serve the Republic of Zambia as Commander Zambia Army.

Lt Gen Alibuzwi also expressed gratitude to the Officers, Soldiers and Civilian Staff for their support, which he added made his journey in the Army both manageable and fulfilling. “Serving as Army Commander was a rare privilege. I have fought a good fight and completed my military race,” he said.

Lt Gen Alibuzwi urged the rank and file to remain steadfast in the performance of their duties and continue upholding high levels of discipline.

The former Commander Zambia Army congratulated his successor, Lt Gen Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele and Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, Maj Gen Luswepo Sinyinza on their appointments and subsequent promotions.

And Commander Zambia Army, Lt Gen Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele has hailed his predecessor for his leadership and steering the Army to higher heights, and ensuring that it was taken closer to the people.

The Army Commander said Lt Gen Alibuzwi served the country and the Army diligently, and that he was honoured to serve as his Deputy for three years.

“You left a legacy that we shall continue to build on and we shall add value to it,” Lt Gen Zyeele said.

He reiterated that the Army will continue preserving the sovereignty of the Republic of Zambia and will strive to transform into a modern and versatile force.

After the Farewell Parade, Lt Gen Alibuzwi planted a Musikili sapling at the 2 Infantry Battalion Cenotaph in his remembrance .

In attendance at the farewell parade were Deputy Service Chiefs, former Service Chiefs, Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, Major General Luswepo Sinyinza, Defence Attachés accredited to the Republic of Zambia and Heads of Branches among other stakeholders.

Lt Gen Alibuzwi served as Commander Zambia Army from 29 August 2021, to September 12, 2024.