TODAY MARKS 2 YEARS SINCE THE IMPACTFUL APPOINTMENT OF LIEUTENANT GENERAL GEOFFREY CHOONGO ZYEELE.
TODAY marks two years since the Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force, President Hakainde Hichilema, appointed Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele as Commander of the Zambia Army.
Looking back at these two years, one cannot help but appreciate the intensity of service, commitment and transformation associated with his tenure.
Lt Gen Zyeele assumed command at a time when the Zambia Army, like many institutions, needed leadership that could balance operational readiness, discipline, professional development, innovation and its contribution to national development. His approach has demonstrated that military leadership is not only about commanding troops; it is also about building institutions, strengthening people and preparing the Army for the challenges of tomorrow.
A Commander Who Has Been Present
One of the defining characteristics of Lt Gen Zyeele’s leadership has been his visibility and engagement with the institution he commands.
Rather than leadership being confined to an office, his tenure has been characterised by interaction with formations, units and personnel, as well as engagement with communities and traditional leadership.
This approach matters because an effective military is built not only through policies and directives, but also through morale, confidence, discipline and a sense of purpose among the men and women who serve.
His engagements across different parts of the country have helped reinforce the message that the Zambia Army belongs to the nation and exists to serve and protect Zambia.
Strengthening Operational Readiness
Under Lt Gen Zyeele, operational readiness has remained an important part of the Army’s responsibilities.
The Army has continued to participate in national security duties, disaster-response efforts and humanitarian activities while maintaining its constitutional responsibilities.
Recent operations have also demonstrated the importance of coordination between the Army and other security institutions. The 2026 operation at Kikonge, for example, involved cooperation between the Zambia Army, Zambia Air Force and other security agencies to restore state authority in an area affected by illegal mining activities.
Such operations require discipline, coordination, professionalism and clear leadership.
Supporting National Development
Perhaps one of the most important aspects of Lt Gen Zyeele’s tenure has been the continued recognition that national security and national development are closely connected.
The Zambia Army has continued to support food production and other productive activities. Army agricultural initiatives have included the utilisation of its large-scale farm in Solwezi, maize production and livestock and crop projects at other locations.
The Army has also entered into initiatives aimed at supporting Zambia’s energy security.
In December 2025, the Zambia Army signed an agreement concerning renewable-energy projects, including a proposed 30MW solar PV plant, a 4MW solar project for water pumping and a 5MW project under the Green Cities Initiative.
This demonstrates a broader understanding of the military’s contribution to national resilience: a secure country must also have food, energy and institutions capable of supporting development.
Investing in People
No army can be stronger than the people who constitute it.
Lt Gen Zyeele has repeatedly emphasised professional development, training and the importance of preparing officers and soldiers for an increasingly complex strategic environment.
The continued training of officers and development of human resources are critical to ensuring that the Zambia Army remains prepared for both traditional and emerging security challenges.
His tenure has also coincided with increased recruitment and strengthened manpower, helping the Army improve its ability to fulfil its responsibilities.
Building Partnerships Beyond Zambia
Modern military leadership also requires international engagement.
Lt Gen Zyeele has represented Zambia in regional and international engagements, strengthening military-to-military relationships and sharing experiences on emerging security challenges.
His participation in engagements concerning Zambia’s historical and contemporary relationship with Ethiopia, for example, highlighted the importance of African cooperation in confronting challenges such as terrorism, organised crime, climate-related threats and other emerging security concerns.
These engagements help position the Zambia Army within a broader regional and continental security environment.
Leadership During National Moments
The true measure of leadership is often revealed during moments that demand discipline, coordination and responsibility.
The Zambia Army recently played its part in supporting national security during the 2026 electoral period and the subsequent inauguration ceremony.
Following those assignments, the Army held a thanksgiving service where Lt Gen Zyeele recognised the importance of teamwork, unity, sacrifice and professionalism in carrying out the institution’s responsibilities.
Similarly, preparations for the President’s second-term inauguration involved close coordination among defence and security chiefs, with Lt Gen Zyeele leading an inspection of the National Heroes Stadium and stressing the importance of an orderly, dignified and secure ceremony.
These moments remind us that military leadership is ultimately about responsibility to the nation.
Two Years, But an Impact That Feels Much Longer
When one considers the breadth of activities undertaken during these two years—operational readiness, professional development, agricultural production, renewable-energy initiatives, national security responsibilities, disaster-response support, international cooperation and institutional engagement—it becomes understandable why some may describe the period as “two years that looks like five.”
It is not simply about the number of projects or activities.
It is about the pace, consistency and seriousness with which responsibilities have been pursued.
Leadership should ultimately be measured by what an institution becomes under one’s stewardship.
And for Lt Gen Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, these two years provide a substantial record upon which to reflect.
Appreciation to the Commander
On this second anniversary, it is therefore appropriate to recognise and appreciate Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele for his dedication to duty.
Commanding an Army is a responsibility that demands sacrifice, discipline, courage, strategic thinking and the ability to make difficult decisions in the interest of the nation.
For two years, Lt Gen Zyeele has carried that responsibility.
His journey is far from over, and there is undoubtedly much more work ahead.
But today is a moment to pause and say thank you.
Thank you for the dedication.
Thank you for the consistency.
Thank you for the visibility.
Thank you for the commitment to professional development.
Thank you for supporting the Army’s contribution to national development.
And above all, thank you for continuing to serve Zambia.
Two years on the calendar.
An impact that looks like five years.
Happy Second Anniversary, Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele.
May God continue to grant you wisdom, strength and good health as you serve the Republic of Zambia.