Zambia National Service

The history of the Zambia National Service (ZNS) evolves from a politically charged origin to a pivotal institution in Zambia's post-independence development and security. Established in 1963 by the United National Independence Party (UNIP)^[8] as the Land Army,^[12] it was intended as a military option in case independence negotiations failed. After Zambia peacefully gained independence on October 24, 1964, the Land Army was demobilized. However, on 20 December 1971,^[13] an Act of Parliament gave birth to a more militant ZNS.^[14][15] This transition included the addition of military training due to Zambia's involvement in the anti-apartheid struggle. By 1974, military training became compulsory for form five school leavers, university graduates, and government officials,^[12] but in 1980, the requirement for form five school leavers was discontinued and was almost reintroduced in 2013 by the Youth and Sport Minister, Chishimba Kambwili.^[16]

The ZNS traces its roots back to the Land Army, initially established as a potential militant wing of UNIP during Zambia's quest for independence.^[17] The Land Army served as a contingency force for a guerrilla military option, but Zambia peacefully achieved independence on 24 October 1964, making the armed struggle unnecessary.^[9]

The peaceful attainment of independence brought a new challenge – a sizable cohort of young, uneducated, and unemployed individuals from the Land Army. To address this, in 1965, the government initiated a skills training program to empower these youths with practical trades, enabling their reintegration into society. The Land Army transformed into the Zambia Youth Service, marking a shift toward productivity and inclusivity. This program, operating from 1965 to December 1971, represented a significant period of reform.^[9]

Zambia's involvement in supporting liberation struggles in neighboring Southern African countries led to external threats. Hostile forces from Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and South Africa launched military raids and bombings on Zambian territory. To enhance defense capabilities, the government dissolved the Zambia Youth Service and officially established the Zambia National Service (ZNS) through an Act of Parliament on 20 December 1971.^[9] This date is now commemorated annually as Zambia National Service Day, symbolizing the transition from a youth-focused, skills-building program to a well-organized military force entrusted with safeguarding the nation's security.^[17] The history of the Zambia National Service reflects the nation's journey from its early aspirations for independence through the challenges of post-independence nation-building to its commitment to national security and development.^[17]

On 23 May 2024 ZNS launched Eagles Holding Limited comprises eight subsidiary companies, including, Eagles Alert Security Company, Eagles Plus Trading, Eagles Events and Advertisement, Eagles Exploration and Minerals, Eagles Fuels and Lubricants, Eagles Bus Services, Eagles Blocks and Pavers & Eagles Fumigation and Sanitation. The official launch took place at ZNS Chamba Valley in Lusaka. The event was graced by the Minister of Defence, Hon Ambrose Lwiji Lufuma, who highlighted the significance of the twin launch of Eagles Holding Group of Companies and Eagles Alert Security.^[18] The initiative, spearheaded by the ZNS, was established in 2022 with the dual aim of engaging in profitable business ventures to boost the nation's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and create job opportunities for the youth. Eagles Plus Trading and Eagles Alert Security are fully operational. Lt Gen Solochi assured that all companies under Eagles Holding will adhere to the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and corporate governance.^[19]

Since its inception, the Zambia National Service (ZNS) has primarily focused on the training of school leavers (Citizens) in a wide range of market-based, life-sustaining skills, primarily related to production. Consequently, the nomenclature "Commandant" was traditionally employed to denote the head of the organization. The term "Commandant" is typically associated with defense departments or entities primarily engaged in one specific leadership component, such as training or health, among others.^[20]

Recognizing the expanding diversity in its roles and deployments, the need arose to adopt a more encompassing and adaptable title. To this end, on 29 December 2021, the ZNS Council, which is entrusted by the President with the lawful administration of the Service's affairs, overwhelmingly approved the change in nomenclature. This significant decision marked the transition from "Commandant" to "Commander" as the official title of the head of the Zambia National Service.^[13]

The change in nomenclature became effective on 14 January 2022, following the conveyance of authority by the Ministry of Defence. This transition to "Commander" reflects the Service's evolving and multifaceted roles, underscoring its commitment to addressing a broader spectrum of responsibilities and challenges.^[17]