Zimbabwe Soldiers Forced To Borrow Ceremonial Uniforms As Treasury Funding Crisis Deepens

Zimbabwe’s military is facing mounting financial difficulties, with soldiers reportedly borrowing ceremonial uniforms while some barracks lack water and electricity. Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has outlined several challenges facing the ministry, including unpaid bills, inadequate accommodation and stalled infrastructure projects.

Financial constraints have also affected the completion of Manyame Hospital, which remains unfinished in practical terms despite being 97% complete. The contractor has reportedly left the site over unpaid bills, leaving the military unable to bring the facility into operation.

Zimbabwe Soldiers Borrow Ceremonial Uniforms Amid Budget Shortfall

Muchinguri-Kashiri told Parliament that the ministry is struggling to provide the three sets of uniforms required for each soldier. It has only managed to provide two sets, leaving some personnel borrowing ceremonial clothing.

She said the uniform budget stood at US$620 million against a funding request of ZiG4 billion, meeting only 25% of the ministry’s requirements.

“Currently the ministry is failing to meet the requirement for ceremonial uniforms. Many have to borrow. This does not give us the dignity we deserve,” Muchinguri-Kashiri said.

Manyame Hospital Contractor Leaves Over Unpaid Bills

The minister also highlighted the situation at Manyame Hospital, which has a planned capacity of 149 beds and has been 97% complete for two years.

The facility cannot be commissioned because the army has not secured the equipment needed to make it operational. The contractor has also moved off-site because of non-payment.

Muchinguri-Kashiri said the hospital would serve both military personnel and members of the public. It could also reduce foreign medical expenditure, as some military officers are currently referred to India for treatment.

Army Barracks Face Water And Electricity Challenges

Other concerns include stalled Dzivaresekwa housing projects, inadequate institutional accommodation and transport shortages. The ministry has reportedly resorted to hiring vehicles at considerable expense.

Muchinguri-Kashiri also told Parliament that unpaid utility bills had left some barracks without water and electricity, while poor salaries were affecting morale.

The concerns point to wider funding pressures across military operations, infrastructure and welfare services. The minister’s presentation places the release of Treasury funds at the centre of the ministry’s difficulties.

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