HARARE – The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) will conduct a procession of military equipment and personnel from 9 to 11 August as part of preparations for the 2026 Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) Day celebrations, with authorities urging the public to view the exercise as part of the country’s national commemorations.
In a statement, Director Army Public Relations Colonel Hlengiwe Dube said the procession will move from Charles Gumbo Barracks to Rufaro Stadium, the venue for the main ZDF Day celebrations scheduled for Tuesday.
The announcement places the procession within the broader preparations for the annual national defence commemorations, which provide an opportunity for Zimbabweans to recognise the role of the Defence Forces and their contribution to national service.
The procession will depart from Charles Gumbo Barracks and proceed along Airport Road before turning into Dieppe Avenue. It will then continue along Crisps Road before turning into Remembrance Drive towards Rufaro Stadium.
Colonel Dube urged members of the public not to panic during the movement of personnel and equipment, instead encouraging citizens to participate in the celebrations with the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
The public notice is also important from a civic preparedness perspective, as advance communication on the movement of military personnel and equipment helps communities along the designated route understand the activity and avoid unnecessary alarm.
The main ZDF Day commemorations will be held at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, while provincial celebrations will take place across the country.
The 2026 programme therefore combines national commemoration with coordinated provincial activities, allowing communities outside Harare to participate in the Defence Forces celebrations.
