Malawi Defence Force Armed Forces College (Mafco) in Salima on Friday held a passing-out parade for 835 recruits who completed six months of basic military training.
During the training, recruits honed skills in combat marksmanship, fieldcraft, drill duties, career development and physical fitness.
MDF Commander General Paul Velentino Phiri congratulated the graduates and urged them to embrace the MDF’s core values of courage, integrity, resilience and honour.
“As you march off this parade ground, you step into the noble ranks of the MDF. Serve with loyalty, discipline and distinction,”he said. “Do not misuse the uniform to intimidate or oppress the people.”
Velentino Phiri reminded the new soldiers that the communities they protect are the reason for their existence.
“Earn their trust through your conduct. Let your presence inspire confidence, not fear, and be defenders—not perpetrators—of violence,” he said.
Minister of Defence Monica Chang’anamuno, who was the guest of honour at the event, pledged continued government support for soldier welfare and training resources.
She said: “A nation that neglects its soldiers prepares for its own defeat, but a nation that honours its soldiers secures its future. Today we honour our 835 new soldiers who have chosen noble service to our nation.”
The minister also advised the recruits to live up to the lifestyle expected of MDF soldiers and uphold the institution’s reputation at home and abroad.
