Zimbabwe Defence Forces Mourn Senior Chaplain General Colonel Dr Ashani Bwanali
By Desire Tshuma
Harare – The Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) is mourning the death of Colonel Dr Ashani Bwanali, the Senior Chaplain General of the Zimbabwe National Army and Zimbabwe Defence Forces, who passed away today. The cause of death has not yet been announced.
The death has been described as another significant loss for the country’s military establishment.
Colonel Dr Bwanali, who served as the spiritual leader of the Zimbabwe National Army and the wider Zimbabwe Defence Forces, was known for providing pastoral care, moral guidance and counselling to members of the armed forces and their families. Throughout his distinguished military career, he played a pivotal role in promoting discipline, unity and the welfare of service personnel.
His death comes at a time when the Zimbabwe Defence Forces has been grappling with the loss of several senior officers, marking another difficult chapter for the institution. The succession of bereavements has cast a sombre mood across the military fraternity.
As Senior Chaplain General, Colonel Dr Bwanali was responsible for overseeing religious services and chaplaincy programmes within the defence forces. He was widely respected for his commitment to strengthening the spiritual wellbeing of soldiers while offering support during military operations, national events and times of personal hardship.
Messages of condolence have continued to pour in from serving and retired military personnel, church leaders and members of the public, many describing him as a dedicated servant of both God and the nation.
The Zimbabwe Defence Forces is expected to announce funeral arrangements and pay tribute to the late senior officer in the coming days.
Colonel Dr Bwanali’s passing leaves a void within the military chaplaincy, where he served with distinction and unwavering dedication. His legacy of faith, leadership and service to the nation is expected to remain an enduring source of inspiration to members of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.
