By Deogratias Mmana:
President Lazarus Chakwera has challenged soldiers to put training they receive to good use and follow the noble examples of those that lead them if they want to succeed in their vocation.
Speaking Friday when he presided over a graduation ceremony of 31 senior command and staff officers at Malawi Defence Force Command and Staff College in Salima, Chakwera encouraged the soldiers that while they follow the examples of their leaders, they should also lead those coming behind them.
“This is not just a good principle to follow in battle. It is a good principle to follow in life, which is itself a kind of battlefield,” Chakwera said.
He said in life, it is those who go through life and approach their work without any examples and models to anchor, challenge and ground them that often flounder, while those who have such anchors tend to flourish.
- Advertisement -
The President also advised the soldiers to respect their leaders.
“I wish you all the very best as you pursue greater heights in your career as soldiers, but remember to never take that flight without regard to the authority and example of your superiors, for their leadership is the parachute that guarantees you a safe landing when all other measures fail,” Chakwera said.
He added: “When a good general who is a good role model gives an order, your duty as a good soldier is to say Roger That.”
Malawi Defence Force Commander General Valentino Phiri said through the comprehensive training, the soldiers had acquired knowledge and skills which are needed for them to be able to lead men and women in the military.
- Advertisement -
- Advertisement -
“I have no doubt that you will continue to serve the nation with distinction and honour,” Phiri said.
He advised the soldiers that leadership is not just about giving orders but empowering and motivating staff.
He said the training resonates well with the MDF tri-service set up which includes marine, air and army.
The training took place for 46 weeks. The 31 included seven from MDF’s allied armies in Tanzania, Mozambique, Zambia and Kenya.
This is the second cohort that has graduated; the first graduated in August last year.
