Lieutenant Colonel Grace Muriri Becomes First Female Commander of 5.2 Infantry Battalion

Lieutenant Colonel Grace Muriri has made history in the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) as the first woman to lead the 52 Infantry Battalion since the nation gained independence in 1980.

The 5.2 Infantry Battalion, also known as the Burning Spear and based in Battlefields, Midlands Province, reached a milestone with Muriri’s appointment, which reflects the government’s ongoing commitment to gender inclusion and the promotion of women in leadership roles within the security sector.

Muriri succeeds Lieutenant Colonel Tongai Hove, who now commands the 3 Presidential Guards Battalion following his tenure at the 5.2 Infantry Battalion, where he oversaw several operations aimed at maintaining order across the country.

“During my time with the 5.2 Infantry Battalion, we conducted multiple operations including Operation Hakudzokwi Phase 64 in Chiyadzwa, Operation No to Riverbed Mining, and Exercise Mbada Inoruma. I commend the officers and soldiers of 52 Infantry for their dedication. Together, we strengthened our unity and operational effectiveness. Today, the Burning Spear stands as a symbol of the resilience and strength of the community it serves,” said outgoing commander, Lieutenant Colonel Tongai Hove.

At the handover ceremony, Brigadier General Lawrence Munzwararikwa, commander of the Fifth Infantry Brigade, urged the battalion to fully support the new leadership. “I congratulate Lieutenant Colonel Muriri on her promotion and appointment. With your expertise, I am confident you will build on your predecessor’s achievements and take the unit to greater heights. Respect the traditions of the battalion while embracing innovative approaches to enhance effectiveness and resilience,” he said.

Lieutenant Colonel Muriri expressed readiness to lead the battalion, highlighting the importance of discipline, unity, and teamwork. “Our strength comes not only from individual skills but also from our ability to work collectively toward shared objectives. We must remain resolute in adversity, support each other, and foster trust and collaboration.

“I reaffirm our commitment to the highest ethical and professional standards. Every action we take will uphold integrity, honour, and respect. Training and operational readiness will remain top priorities to ensure the battalion continues to perform at the highest level,” Muriri said.

The ZNA is charged with safeguarding national peace and protecting Zimbabwe’s territorial integrity, and Muriri’s appointment marks a significant step forward in diversifying leadership within the country’s elite military units.