EXPANSION OF ZNS
Zambia at Independence: A Nation Surrounded
When Zambia gained independence in 1964, only Malawi, Tanzania, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) were free among its eight neighbours. Even then, the DRC was embroiled in internal conflict, while Botswana remained a British Protectorate.
Zambia's outspoken stance in support of the liberation of Southern Africa drew hostility from minority regimes in Southern Rhodesia, Angola, Mozambique, Namibia, and apartheid South Africa. The young nation endured military raids and bombings, stretching its limited defence capacity to the limit.
The Birth of a "Citizen Army"
To meet these threats, the Government resolved to strengthen national defence. On 1 December 1971, Minister of Defence Hon. Grey Zulu announced in Parliament that a bill had been passed to create a Citizen Army.
This vision aligned with President Kenneth Kaunda's call at Mulungushi Hall in 1970 for a new kind of defender: the "soldier–farmer–citizen."
The bill laid the foundation of the Zambia National Service (ZNS), providing for:
-
The office of the Commandant and Registrar.
-
A new administrative and training structure, including military training and production camps.
National Service for All
Under the 1971 ZNS Act (CAP 136 of the Laws of Zambia), all able-bodied citizens aged 18–35 were required to undergo military training.
-
General Citizens: Three months of military training, combined with agricultural and vocational skills.
-
Form 5 School Leavers: Four months of National Service before or during university, plus an additional month after graduation.
-
Graduates: Bonded to ZNS for 20 months as reservists.
-
Leaders and Officials: Party officials, Members of Parliament, District Governors, and senior civil servants were also eligible for enlistment.
This system ensured that Zambians were not only prepared to defend their country but also equipped with practical skills for nation-building.
ZNS in Action: Defending the Nation
The ZNS quickly proved its worth. On 19 November 1979, Rhodesian airborne troops launched a daring raid, bombing the Chongwe Bridge east of Lusaka.
A section of ZNS servicemen guarding the bridge fought back with courage. In the ensuing battle:
-
21 Rhodesian rebels were killed.
-
7 Zambians lost their lives, including a young boy and a police officer.
Two days later, President Kaunda declared a State of War, praising the gallantry of ZNS members.
Supporting the Liberation Struggle
Beyond defending Zambia, ZNS supported liberation movements operating from its soil. The Service:
-
Constructed munitions storage facilities.
-
Established arms caches for allied liberation fighters.
These contributions made ZNS not only a defender of Zambia but also a partner in the wider liberation of Southern Africa.