Air Force Introduces Mandatory Drug Tests For Recruits

The Air Force of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has implemented strict medical examinations to screen all potential recruits for drug use, with automatic disqualification for those who fail.

Speaking at the graduation of more than 50 AFZ students in Gweru last Friday, Commander Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede stressed that the medical screenings now specifically test for drug and substance use.

Air Marshal Nzvede added that modernising the force requires not only new equipment but also personnel who are clean, disciplined, and mentally fit. He said:

“The AFZ is a security organisation and cannot afford to have personnel abuse alcohol, drugs, and substances as well as engage in irresponsible gambling.

“There are many distractions with the potential to compromise discipline, resulting in some officers and members failing to meet the expectations of the organisation.

“This is a threat to national security; hence we have taken stern measures to contain the threat.”

The graduating class, 19 women and 33 men, completed rigorous training in air power, weapons handling, conventional warfare, and other specialised disciplines.

Air Marshal Nzvede said the updated training syllabus now prepares officers to tackle contemporary threats, including those arising from compromised mental and physical fitness due to substance abuse.

More: The Herald

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