Quietly rising through the ranks of the Zimbabwe National Army over decades of military service, Major General Fidelis Mhonda has now reached one of the most significant milestones in his career following his promotion by Commander-in-Chief President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The President elevated the Presidential Guard Brigade Commander from Brigadier General to Major General with effect from June 22, recognising an officer who has spent years serving in one of the country’s most sensitive military assignments.
The new rank was officially conferred during an investiture ceremony held at Defence House in Harare on Tuesday, where Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces General Emmanuel Matatu officiated on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief.
For the past six years, Major General Mhonda has commanded the Presidential Guard Brigade, an elite formation of the Zimbabwe National Army responsible for protecting the President, State House and other strategic national installations.
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He assumed command of the brigade in 2019, succeeding Major General Anselem Sanyatwe, and has overseen one of the military’s most critical security units during a period marked by evolving security demands and increased responsibilities.
His latest promotion places him among the senior leadership of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces and reflects confidence in his leadership and service.
Speaking after receiving his new rank, Major General Mhonda described the promotion as one of the defining moments of his military career.
“I am truly honoured to stand before you today receiving this promotion to the rank of Major General. It is a meaningful moment in my career, and I would like to thank the Commander-in-Chief, Head of State and Government and President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, through the Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces and the Commander Zimbabwe National Army, for believing in me and giving me this opportunity,” he said.
The newly promoted officer also paid tribute to fellow soldiers and colleagues who supported him throughout his career.
“I am deeply grateful to my colleagues who challenged, inspired and supported me every step of the way. This promotion is not just a personal milestone; it reflects the incredible teamwork and collaboration I have experienced,” he said.
The investiture ceremony attracted senior commanders from the Zimbabwe National Army, the Air Force of Zimbabwe and other service chiefs, underlining the significance of the promotion within the military establishment.
As Major General Mhonda assumes his new rank, he continues to lead the Presidential Guard Brigade, the unit entrusted with the security of the Head of State and some of the country’s most strategic institutions.
His promotion marks not only a personal achievement but also another chapter in the leadership of one of Zimbabwe’s most important military formations.