The Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has recently undergone a change in leadership, with Air Vice Marshal John Jacob Nzvede being promoted to the rank of Air Marshal on Friday.

The conferment of this new rank to Air Marshal Nzvede took place in Harare, with Commander Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), General Philip Valerio Sibanda, overseeing the ceremony.

Air Marshal Nzvede assumes his new position following the retirement of Air Marshal Elson Moyo, whose departure came after an airport bomb scare that led President Emmerson Mnangagwa to cancel an engagement in Victoria Falls.

Following the incident, which reportedly displeased senior officials, Air Marshal Nzvede, known for his involvement in the 2017 coup that brought President Mnangagwa to power, was seen as a likely successor due to his perceived loyalty.

President Mnangagwa, who holds the position of commander-in-chief of ZDF, which includes both the army and air force, ultimately approved the promotion.

During the investiture ceremony, General Sibanda emphasized to Air Marshal Nzvede that with promotion comes increased responsibilities, as stated in State media reports.

In response to his promotion, Air Marshal Nzvede expressed gratitude for the added responsibility and pledged to work diligently for the betterment of AFZ and ZDF as a whole.