Sunday, 27 January 2013

ZAMBIA COMBINED CADET FORCE


ROLES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE ZAMBIA COMBINED CADET FORCE;

AN ANALYSIS OF ITS RELEVANCE IN MODERN ZAMBIA

 
By Davies Saina Kalepa - Lusaka Zambia


INTRODUCTION

1.         The operations of the Zambia Combined Cadet Force (ZCCF) can be traced back to pre-independence times. This was in 1948 after the introduction of Secondary Schools in Northern Rhodesia, then simply established as Combined Cadet Force (CCF).

2.         The Federal Act required all Boys of fourteen years (minimum age) to join Cadet Force with exceptions on medical advice or acceptable reasons. The object of the Cadet Corps was to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence.

3.         ZCCF was established in 1964, by Government Notice No 46 of 1964, which repealed the Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadets Corps Act of 1955. The additional role for ZCCF was to prepare Cadets for military service. It also increased the minimum age for joining to fourteen years six months.

4.         The concept of ZCCF is practiced in a lot of countries around the world, and is often referred to as Youth Training or National Service. In most of these countries, only school leavers are recruited before entry into Universities or Colleges just as obtained in Zambia in the 1970s and early 1980s. In the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Region, Mozambique and Zimbabwe are good examples where youth training is more pronounced. The main objective is to inculcate Patriotism and Nationalism in the youth so that they may serve their countries better.

5.         ZCCF falls under ZCCF/TF/HG Directorate at Army Headquarters, which is responsible for the coordination of all ZCCF Activities through Provincial Commands.

6.         There has been reduced support to ZCCF activities and this is generally attributed to lack of adequate funding by the government. It has been observed that the lack of patriotism and nationalism among the youth in recent years is a result of this reduced training and support for youth programmes and activities in general.

AIM

7.         The aim of this paper is to examine the roles and Functions of ZCCF, to determine its relevance in the current Defence and Security setting in Zambia.

BACKGROUND

8.         The ZCCF started as Combined Cadet Force in 1948. This was after the introduction of Secondary Schools in Northern Rhodesia earlier the same year. In 1952, the name changed to Northern Rhodesia Cadets Corps. An Ordinance to provide for the establishment and maintenance of the Combined Cadet Force in Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland was enacted in 1955. The Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadet Corps Act of 1955, enacted by the Federal Government replaced the Northern Rhodesia Cadets Corps formed in 1952.

9.         In 1956, the Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadet Corps changed its name to Federal Cadet Corps. This was to reflect the new government structure of the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, comprising Northern Rhodesia (Zambia), Southern Rhodesia (Zimbabwe) and Nyasaland (Malawi). The actual organization, roles and functions did not change.

10.       In 1961, authority was granted by the Federation to have Cadet Corps in all Schools. As a result, all Secondary Schools introduced Cadets training, which became part of the school programmes.

11.       Senior Regular Officers in Units were responsible for training of Cadets. The Units comprised    1 Engineer Sqn, 67 Rifles, 77 Rifles, 1 Bn and 2 Bn which made up the Northern Rhodesia Regiment. All logistical arrangements for Cadets training were coordinated by concerned Units, and the Units had representation in all schools. Cadet Service was recognized for those who joined Territorial Forces within twelve months of leaving the Cadet Force.

12.       The Federal Act required all Boys of fourteen years (minimum age) to join Cadet Force with exceptions on medical advice or acceptable reasons. The principal object of the Cadet Corps was to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence. All lessons were tailored to ensure development of one or more of these attributes in the boys.

13.       On 25 April 1964, the government approved the formation of the Combined Cadet Force Battalion and Six Bands, commanded by a Major. Each of the following schools contributed two platoons and a Band:

            a.         Canisius College (in Southern Province).

            b.         Gilber Rennie (now Kabulonga Boys High School - in Lusaka).

            c.         Hilcrest High School (in Livingstone).

            d.         Kalonga High School (in Kabwe - then Broken Hill).

            e.         Munali High School (in Lusaka).

            f.          Prince Philip High School (now Kamwala High School - in Lusaka).

            g.         King Goerge IV High School (in Kabwe).

14.       The Zambia Combined Cadet Force was established in 1964. Authority for its establishment is found in Government Notice No 46 of 1964, which provided for the establishment and maintenance of ZCCF, and for the repeal of the Rhodesia and  Nyasaland Cadets Corps Act of 1955. The ZCCF Act increased the minimum age for joining Cadet Force from fourteen years to fourteen years six months. It also restricted eligibility to boys attending a recognized secondary school in Form III or above. Training became a responsibility of the Regular Officers and Soldiers of the newly transformed Zambia Army, and training objectives remained the same.

15.       The primary role of the force was to foster among youth of Zambia, an interest in the Armed Forces. This included giving pre-service training to potential entrants into the regular, territorial or auxiliary forces. It did not form part of the Defence Force, but assisted in the production of candidates for commissioned rank. Military training covered Drill, Basic Field Craft, Skill at Arms and Map Reading. Field exercises included Range Firing Exercises and Field Craft exercises. These were normally conducted during annual camps, which were organized every year in each province.

STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

16.       The laws and regulations governing the operations of ZCCF were repealed, amended and refined several times from the inception of CCF in 1948 to the enactment of the ZCCF Act in 1964. This was to restructure and refine roles to suit changing times. However, no major changes have been made between 1964 and 2012 to factor changes in the political landscape and defence and security Laws. This leaves a question as to whether the roles and objectives in the ZCCF Act are still valuable in the current defence and security setting. It has also been observed that there is lack of Patriotism and Nationalism among the youth of modern Zambia, and this is attributed to reduced youth training. This paper seeks to investigate and analyze the roles and functions of ZCCF to establish their suitability and relevance in Modern Zambia. 

OBJECTIVES

17.       General Objective: To examine the roles and functions of ZCCF and determine their suitability in the current Defence and Security environment.

18.       Specific Objectives

a.         Review the Chapters of the Laws of Zambia that govern the operations of ZCCF.

b.         Review available books/précis/pamphlets containing material related to the operations of ZCCF.

c.         Interview selected Officers and Soldiers to hear their views on the current operations of ZCCF.

d.         Analyze the data collected on the operations of ZCCF to determine the current status.

e.         Identify areas of weaknesses in the operations, and make suitable recommendations for improvement.

JUSTIFICATION

19.       It had taken a long time without reviewing the operations of ZCCF, therefore, there was need to do so to determine if the current structure, roles and functions were still valid in the current political, and defence and security environment. There had also been perceived reduced activity and support for the operations of ZCCF; hence the need to establish the reasons for this reduced activity and support.

LIMITATIONS

20.       Due to time limits and limited financial resources, the research was only conducted in Lusaka. It was expected that the information obtained represented a broad spectrum of ZCCF Character since the Directorate is in Lusaka, and most of ZCCF activities take place in Lusaka.

DEFINITIONS

21.       For the purpose of this paper, the following words/terms will carry the meaning as defined:

a.         Home Guard – The Home Guard established under Section three of the Home Guard Act.

b.         Territorial Force – The Territorial Force of the Army established under the provisions of Section………….of the Defence Act (Cap 106 of the Laws of Zambia).

c.         Force – The Army reserve and Territorial Army reserve.

d.         Patriotism – The love for a nation, with more emphasis on values and beliefs; defensive in nature, both militarily and culturally.

e.         Nationalism - To give more importance to unity by way of a cultural background, including language and heritage.

LITERATURE REVIEW

23.       Literature related to the operations of ZCCF and the Zambia Defence Force in general was reviewed in detail to establish the gaps. This included the following publications:

a.         The Defence Act.  In the Preamble of the Defence Act (Cap 106 of the laws of Zambia - formerly Cap 131), it states that; “An Act to provide for the creation and maintenance in Zambia of a Defence force consisting of an Army comprising of; The Regular Force of the Army, the Territorial Force (Home Guard) of the Army and the Regular Force of the Army.” School Cadets are trained by officers and soldiers from the Regular Force of the Army, therefore the provisions of the Defence Act have a bearing on the organization and activities of the ZCCF.

b.         Zambia Combined Cadet Force Act. The Zambia Combined Cadet Force was established in 1964. Authority for its establishment is found in Government Notice No 46 of 1964, which provided for the establishment and maintenance of ZCCF, and for the repeal of the Rhodesia and  Nyasaland Cadets Corps Act of 1955. The ZCCF Act (Chapter 112 of the laws of Zambia (formerly Cap 132) increased the minimum age for joining Cadet Force from fourteen years to fourteen years six months. It also restricted eligibility to boys attending a recognized secondary school in Form III or above. Training became a responsibility of the Regular Officers and Soldiers of the newly transformed Zambia Army, and training objectives remained the same.

c.         Cadet Training Vol III. Cadet Training Volume III specifies the type of training School Cadets are to undertake. This includes the military drills and other subjects meant to develop leadership, Confidence, Courage, initiative and other qualities required of a responsible man. This is followed by by all Cadets instructors in Secondary Schools. However, due to lack of qualified instructors in most secondary schools, some of these qualities are not developed, leaving drill as the main training activity known by all.

d.         Home Guard Act. The Home Guard Act (Chapter 135 of the Laws of Zambia) was enacted in 1972 and abolished the Territorial Force Act. The Cadet training which service as recognized by the Territorial Act became recognized as such by this new Act. Therefore, the Home Guard recognizes Cadets training if a member joins the Home Guard within one year.

e.         Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadet Corps Act 1955. This Act was enacted to recognize the joint-ness of Cadet activities between Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland during the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland. It was further abolished with the enactment of the Federal Cadet Act which recognized cadet activities in Southern Rhodesia as well.

f.          Federal Cadet Corps Act of April 1956. The Federal Act required all Boys of fourteen years (minimum age) to join Cadet Force with exceptions on medical advice or acceptable reasons. The object of the Cadet Corps was to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence.

g.         Government Ordinance No 46 of 1964. The Zambia Combined Cadet Force was established in 1964. Authority for its establishment is found in Government Notice No 46 of 1964, which provided for the establishment and maintenance of ZCCF, and for the repeal of the Rhodesia and  Nyasaland Cadets Corps Act of 1955. The ZCCF Act increased the minimum age for joining Cadet Force from fourteen years to fourteen years six months. It also restricted eligibility to boys attending a recognized secondary school in Form III or above

h.         Zambia National Service Act. Zambia National Service was formed to supplement the Army during liberation struggles. This is as contained in the Zambia National Service Act (Chapter 136 of the laws of Zambia). All school leavers were required to undergo Nation Service training before going to college. Cadets training and experience in Secondary Schools was used as a stepping stone to further military training with National Service. Due to prior military knowledge, Former School Cadets excelled well during National Service and helped motivate the rest throughout the course.

j.          1987 Philippine Constitution. In Article II (Declaration of Principles and State Policies), Section 13, the State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and undertakes to promote and protect their physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. It shall inculcate in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs. Section 17 states that “the State shall give priority to education, science and technology, arts, culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total human liberation and development”.

 

k.         Other books, précis, pamphlets, reports and publications relevant to the study were reviewed. These included training pamphlets issued by ZCCF Directorate from time to time and précis used by instructors in the conduct of Cadet Training by ZCCF Lusaka Command. Annual Reports by ZCCF Directorate and ZCCF History as compiled by ZCCF/RF/HG Directorate were also reviewed to get an insight of activities which were conducted in the recent past.

METHODOLOGY

24.       The research was done by way of literature review, questionnaires and interviews with selected service personnel and current members of ZCCF. The target groups were:

a.         Questionnaires. Officers and Warrant Officers serving with ZCCF, and any other persons deemed to have knowledge of the operations of \ZCCF and roles. The questionnaire is at Annex A. Fifty (50) questionnaires were given to selected officers and men.

b.         Interviews: Selected individuals from ZCCF Directorate, ZCCF Lusaka Command, Ex-Servicemen, DALS and Operations and Training Branch were interviewed. A total of One Hundred (100) officers, soldiers, School Cadets and civilians were interviewed.

 

FINDINGS

25.       The findings were evaluated and analyzed in detail to ensure right conclusions and recommendations were made. The findings were as follows:

a.         Establishment. The Zambia Combined Cadet Force (ZCCF) came into being through an Act of Parliament (Chapter 132 of the Laws of Zambia) of 18 September 1964 which provided for the establishment and maintenance in Zambia of the Cadet Force. The Zambia Combined Cadet Force became a responsibility of the Zambia Army for all training activities, and all allowances due to members were channeled through the Army.

b.         Organisation of ZCCF. In the Preamble of the Def Act, it states that; “An Act to provide for the creation and maintenance in Zambia of a Defence force consisting of an Army comprising of; The Regular Force of the Army, the Territorial Force (Home Guard) of the Army and the Regular Force of the Army.” Chapter 7 of the Cadet Force Act states that; “Command, Training and Inspection of the Cadet Force shall be vested in the Army Commander.” The organization of ZCCF is as follows:

(1)        ZCCF/HG/RF Directorate at Army HQ is responsible for organization and training.

(2)        All provincial centres have commands comprising several ZCCF contingents under them.

(3)        A contingent of Army Cadets consists of one or more platoons commanded by an Officer appointed by the Army Commander.

(4)        A platoon consists of not more than twenty-eight (28) Cadets, of whom one cadet is a Cadet Second Lieutenant appointed by the Army Commander, three Cadet Sergeants and three Cadet Corporals.

(5)        A contingent comprising two or more platoons may be granted authority to raise a Band consisting of not more than twenty (20) Cadets, of whom one may be a Drum Major.

(6)        The Army Commander may form any number of Army Cadet Contingents into a Unit which shall be commanded by an Officer not higher than Major.   

c.         Role of ZCCF. Cadet Forces are established in Government High Schools throughout the country. Their main role is to promote military interest in students from which Potential Officers and Soldiers would be drawn. The object of the Cadet Corps was to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence. ZCCF Directorate of the Regular Force of the Army organises their training. Cadets are not eligible for call up during mobilization. All Provincial Centres have commands comprising several contingents under them. The minimum age for joining Cadet Force is Fourteen Years Six Months.

d.         Functions of ZCCF. The functions of ZCCF include:

(1)        To foster among the youth of Zambia, an interest in the Armed Forces.

(2)        To prepare Cadets for military service by providing moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence.

(3)        To take part in selected parades as authorized by the Army commander from time to time.

(4)        Participate in Social functions of national character when invited and authorized by the Army Commander through Provincial commands. In Lusaka, Cadets participate during the National Agriculture and Commercial Show which is organized every year on Farmers Day holiday in August.

e.         Command. Command, training and inspection of the Cadet Force is vested in the Army Commander (Cap 132, Sec 7). He appoints officers to command ZCCF and directs all operations through ZCCF/RF/HG Directorate. The Regional Commanders in Provinces help Provincial ZCCF Commands in the administration of all ZCCF activities, including guidance as to which programmes the Cadets have to participate in. Currently, this study found out that Regional Commands are either co-located with Zambia Army Regional HQs or located within the same area. Though control by and reliance on Regional HQs for admin purposes was reported, actual interference in training activities is not there.

f.          Issue of Government Property. Issue of Arms, equipment, clothing and general stores to Contingents is at the expense of the Government of Republic of Zambia. The accounting for equipment issued to various schools is the responsibility of such schools through the instructors seconded to secondary schools in question. This is reflected in the ZCCF Act. This is currently the case as was confirmed by respondents. However, most of the respondents indicated that supply of required equipment and clothing has been erratic in the recent past. This was attributed to reduced funding as well reduced political will for the activities of ZCCF.

g.         Guards of Honour. Cadet shall not form any Guards of Honour or take part in any public functions in their capacity as Cadets without the authority of the Army Commander. This is according to the ZCCF Act. This research found out that normally, participation of Cadets in parades is limited to social functions of entertainment nature.

h.         Rations. Officers and Cadets of ZCCF attending duty are entitled to be issued with rations at the expense of the government. Rations are normally issued to Cadets during annual camps and parades lasting for over eight hours as provided for in the regulations. The rations are accounted for using the Zambia Army ration accounting system, and drawn by the Quartermaster of the Unit coordinating the training.

j.          Standard of Proficiency. The standard of proficiency to be attained by Cadets is recognized by the granting of appropriate certificates and awards. Such certificates are issued during annual camps. This research established that in most schools, the required standard of training is not being attained due to lack of qualified instructors and other resources. Some of the respondents claimed that Cadet Force had been reduced to a mare club instead of a Force and that the original values have been eroded with time. Some school Cadets interviewed did not know the objectives of Cadet training as per ZCCF Act. The come response was that they joined because of their interest in joining the Defence Forces after completing Secondary School.

k.         Public Perception. Most of the interviewees identified the roles of ZCCF as participation in youth day celebrations and other youth programmes as opposed to the roles of ZCCF as per establishment. However, over 90% of them feel Cadet Service is good for the youth and should be encouraged. Physical training was by far the known objective of ZCCF Cadet training. Very few of those interviewed identified the provision of moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence as indicated in the ZCCF Act.

l.          Training Activities. This researcher discovered through this research that training activities had reduced drastically as compared to the period up to 1990. Respondents bemoaned lack of consistence in organizing training camps and range activities in the recent past. However, most of them attributed this sad development to lack of adequate funding. ZCCF/RF/HG Directorate personnel interviewed mentioned of annual training programmes being done every year, but that funding was the major challenge.

m.        Appointments.

(a)        The President may appoint persons to hold commissioned ranks in the Cadet Force. An officer shall hold his appointment during the pleasure of the President, but his commission shall not be cancelled unless he is notified in writing of the action proposed to be taken against him and is called upon to show cause in relation thereto  (Cap 132 Sec7).

(b)        The Army Commander may appoint a Cadet Second Lieutenant or Cadet Acting Sub-Lieutenant. On the report of a board of inquiry, the Army Commander may cancel the appointment of such cadets. He may also suspend any cadet from duty.

n.         Promotions. The Army Commander may:

(a)        On the authority of the President, promote or temporarily appoint any officer to higher rank.

(b)        Appoint any officer to act in a higher rank.

(c)        Suspend any officer from duty.

o.         Allowances. A Cadet Second Lieutenant attending for duty at a Cadet Camp is entitled to allowances at prevailing rates. Currently, these allowances have normally not been paid due to lack of sufficient funds.

p.         Training Objective. The main objective of ZCCF training is to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence. Most of the respondents could not ascertain as to whether those that passed through the Cadets Training developed these traits better than those that did not. Teachers of Secondary Schools interviewed said that it was rear to have the best students join Cadets training due to lack of knowledge of the objectives, and that the numbers are usually low to make a meaningful comparison, which they said require time. On the other hand, it was clear that very few schools keep track of former students to make an informed opinion. However, it was clear that those that passed through compulsory Zambia National Service training appreciated the benefits and happy they did it, but also that the leadership qualities acquired are helping them in their current fields of work. Such individuals highly recommended Cadets Training in schools.

q.         Challenges. The major challenges of ZCCF as submitted by most respondents are:

(1)        Lack of adequate funding for training activities. This is said to be the major challenge faced by ZCCF in the recent past. Many planned camps have been cancelled due to lack of funds to conduct the exercise.

(2)        Lack of Uniforms to distribute to all Schools. Some schools have not been issued with Cadet Uniforms for a long time making them train in civil clothing.

(3)        Cadets do not get any priority during recruitment. Naturally, Cadets develop interest in joining the armed forces and look forward to either join the Army or Airforce. However, due to high unemployment levels in the country, recruitment is very competitive and is open to all Zambians of prescribed qualifications with Cadets competing on equal basis. Besides, the recruitment of Soldier is done in a way that ensures tribal balancing further lessening the chances for Cadets whose Parents originate from different provinces.

            (4)        Lack of adequate transport in the Provincial Commands to undertake all required activities. Transport resources are scarce and so, the Army has to prioritise the use. When it comes to national duties, Cadet Training activities take the second place leading to cancellation of a number of scheduled raining activities every year.

            (5)        Lack of skilled Instructors to cover all secondary schools. Some schools have operated without qualified instructor for long periods of time due to inadequate instructors.

r.          Logistics. Provision of Logistics to ZCCF Provincial Commands is done through                        Zambia Army Regional HQs. This was reported to reduce independence in the operations of ZCCF as the Regional Commanders controlled the said resources and directed as to what should be done. This was according to most respondents who filled in the questionnaires. Nevertheless, it also came up that for the operations of ZCCF to succeed, coordination of resources was required at higher level both at provincial and national level and that the Regional Commander was the right voice at the Province being a member of the Provincial Chiefs were activities are discussed and coordinated.

26.       Nationalism and Patriotism. The major similarity of Youth and National Service Training all over the world is the need to ensure youths grow up embracing nationalism and be patriotic to one’s country. Nationalism means to give more importance to unity by way of cultural background, including language and heritage. Patriotism pertains to the love for a nation, with more emphasis on values and beliefs (George Orwell, Nationalism - 1945). Parents are encouraged to teach their children to respect the National Anthem. They have to be told to stand up as a token of respect for the Anthem. Such discipline helps to shape them into responsible citizens.

27.       The ZCCF Model of youth training is practiced in a number of countries across all continents. In Africa, the African Youth Union was formed to ensure the youth remain patriotic to the values of the continent. This come as a result of neglecting the role of youths in the political and social-economic sectors, the decaying patriotism and nationalism among Africans, foreign aggression, violating of human rights and extreme exploitation, threatening and oppressing of young people, poor systems of governance and dictatorship among some African leaders. The Secretariate is based in South Africa and comprise youth organisations from Ghana, Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Nigeria, Sudan, Ethiopia, South Africa, Swaziland, Zimbabwe, Democratic Republic of Congo, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, Morocco, Ivory Coast, Somalia and Togo. The main objective is to help fight and eradicate nepotism, corruption, human rights abuse, dictatorship, lack of rule of law, vote rigging, homophobia, bigots, unemployment, income inequality, mysterious deaths, conflicts and instability with a view to fostering Patriotism and Nationalism.

  28.     In the SADC Region, Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Tanzania have similar programmes. The aims of the programmes are very similar, apart from the Subject of Patriotism which is included in these countries.

29.       In Mozambique, training is conducted by defence force military schools, and plans are underway to have ISEDEF which is the highest learning military institution, introduce the programme. The main emphasis for the newly developed programme, which will target school leavers, will be ensuring that the youth become more patriotic to the Nation in their youth as well as in adulthood, but also to ensure their willingness for service when called to national duty during hostilities. Patriotism is not only one of the Subjects to be covered, but the major subject. Additionally, well trained officers in Patriotism make a tour of Units each year to conduct training in Patriotism to ensure servicemen remain committed to serving the Nation.

30.       In Zimbabwe, the National Youth Service (NYS) is provided for by the Zimbabwe National Service Act of 1979 which set benchmarks on who could be incorporated into the Zimbabwe National Youth Service and the Military. The National Youth Service Act of 1999 further legalized the creation of the national youth service as an important component in youth development. The National Youth Policy of 2000 went on to underline the importance of the NYS as a developmental platform for youths. The Government of Zimbabwe Started implementing the NYS programme in 2001. On paper, the programme was meant to be a gateway to national economic and social development for young people. It was meant to inculcate the values of national identity, patriotism, unity and oneness, discipline and self-reliance among young people in Zimbabwe.

31.       In the Philippines, the 1987 Philippine Constitution in Article II (Declaration of Principles and State Policies), Section 13, the State recognizes the vital role of the youth in nation-building and undertake to promote and protect the physical, moral, spiritual, intellectual and social well-being. It aims at inculcating in the youth patriotism and nationalism, and encourage their involvement in public and civic affairs. Section 17 states that ‘the State shall give priority to education, culture, and sports to foster patriotism and nationalism, accelerate social progress, and promote total human liberation and development’. The model is similar to the initial objectives of ZCCF. The emphasis on Patriotism and nationalism is meant to ensure all citizens understand and take pride in their history, culture and traditions, as well as be ready to ddefend National Interests when duty calls.

 

ANALYSIS OF FINDINGS

32.       The original provision of compulsory Cadet Training for Secondary School students above fourteen years of age no longer applies. Joining of Cadet Force is now voluntary. Over 50% of secondary school students interview thought ZCCF was a club, and that the objective is to march during youth day, Independence Day as well as during Commercial shows. This development could be a result of lack of enough qualified instructors who are able to explain the roles and functions of ZCCF in Secondary Schools. Furthermore, it could be lack of deliberate public relations programmes to keep the general public informed of the major roles and functions of ZCCF whilst raising interest for Cadets Training among the youth.

33.       Though ZCCF has retained control of the Cadet Force, lack of sufficient funds has resulted into having certain programmes out of Lusaka not fulfilled, such as visits to secondary schools. The result is reduced activity and knowledge of ZCCF roles and functions especially outside Lusaka.

34.       Though one of the roles of Cadet training is to foster interest in military service among the youth, lack of employment has made even those without interest apply to join the Army for a living. This has lessened opportunities for good cadets being assured of joining the Army on completion of secondary school.  

35.       Reduced training activities such as conducting annual camps could be one of the reasons for lack of knowledge of cadet roles by the general population. The is because the older generations had a larger percentage of those who understood the roles of ZCCF even though they never joined Cadet Force when they were in secondary school.

36.       Though the ZCCF Act limits candidates to boys, there are a lot of girls who are currently part of the Zambia Combined Cadet Force. The introduction of Girls in the Cadet Force followed the introduction of women in the Zambia Army. This is not well documented, and so, the Act only refers to boys and this has been interpreted as meaning boys and girls. Revision of the Act is required to recognize girls in clear terms.

37.       The concept of Youth Military skills training is done in a number of countries around the world including the SADC Region for objectives very similar to the Zambian model. However, in most of these countries, Patriotism is the main Subject which is not the case for Zambia. Patriotism covers National History, Culture, Military History, Liberation Struggles and Nationalism among other subjects. These subjects encourage citizens to stand up for their nations in time of hostilities and other national calamities are they identify themselves as one people fighting for a good cause worth dying for. The Subject is good and must be given consideration for Cadets Training in Zambia to ensure national identity and Patriotism.

38.       The results of this research indicate that there is need to revisit the roles and functions of ZCCF to suit the obtaining situation. The Cadets training should be a model for national service, patriotism and nationalist which should all be reflected in the ZCCF training programmes.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CONCLUSION

39.       The operations of the Zambia Combined Cadet Force (ZCCF) can be traced back to pre-independence times. This was in 1948 after the introduction of Secondary Schools in Northern Rhodesia. The Federal Act required all Boys of fourteen years (minimum age) to join Cadet Force with exceptions on medical advice or acceptable reasons. The object of the Cadet Corps was to provide moral, mental and physical training for boys to develop character, leadership, initiative and confidence.

40.       ZCCF was established in 1964, by Government Notice No 46 of 1964, which repealed the Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadets Corps Act of 1955, with the additional role of preparing Cadets for military service.

41.       Cadet Forces are established in Government High Schools throughout the country. Their main role is to promote military interest in students from which Potential Officers and Soldiers would be drawn. ZCCF/RF/HG Directorate based at Army HQ organises their training. Cadets are not eligible for call up during mobilization. All Provincial Centres have commands comprising several contingents under them. The minimum age for joining Cadet Force at the time of this study was Fourteen Years Six Months.

42.       In other countries, including the SADC Region, Youth Training is centrered on Patriotism and Nationalism to inculcate commitment to serving the nation as a priority for every citizen.

43.       There has been reduced funding for ZCCF activities, especially annual camps, one of the most important components of Cadets training. This is in addition to inadequate transport to directly under the control of ZCCF/RF/HG. These need to be looked into.

44.       The aspects of Patriotism and Nationalism were not directly included in the Cadets Training course. It would be prudent to have them as part of the core objectives in order to promote national service, other than selfish interests among those that pass through cadets training.

 

RECOMMENDATIONS

45.       a.         Cadet training should be encouraged, and the original objectives maintained.

b.         There is urgent need to increase support for ZCCF in terms of funds for operations, and meeting all scheduled activities including annual camps.

c.         Cadets that excelled during their service should be given priority during recruitment so that individuals with interest in the Military are recruited as opposed to the current system which may bring in more of those just looking for employment rather than serving the Nation.

d.         Patriotism and Nationalism should be introduced as subjects in the ZCCF Cadets Training programme.

e.         Youth training in Patriotism and Nationalism should be introduced for school leavers, and consideration given to those doing skills training conducted by the Zambia National Service.

f.          The ZCCF Act needs to be revised to reflect the current political and military landscape in the country.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

REFERENCES

Cadet Training Vol III

Combined Cadet Force Act, Chapter 112 of the laws of Zambia (formerly Cap 132)

Defence Act, Chapter 106 of the laws of Zambia (formerly Cap 131)

Ernest Gellner, Nations and Nationalism , 1983

Federal Cadet Corps Act of April 1956

George Orwell, Notes on Nationalism (1945)

Government Ordinance No 46 of 1964


 

Home Guard Act, Chapter 135 of the roles of Zambia

Northern Rhodesia and Nyasaland Cadet Corps Act 1955

Philippine Constitution of 1987, Article II  Section 13 and Section 17

Training for War Précis

Zambia National Service Act, Chapter 136 of the laws of Zambia

 
By Maj Davies Saina Kalepa MCIPS MZIPS - DSCSC Lusaka Zambia 2012

REMEMBRANCE DAY


REMEMBRANCE DAY;

Why the Poppy Flower?

 Compiled by Davies Saina Kalepa - Lusaka Zambia 2012

The month of November is associated with Remembrance Day, which falls on November 11. In the US, Canada, Australia and the UK, poppies are often worn from the beginning of November through to the 11th, or Remembrance Sunday if that falls on a later date (November 13 in 2011). Wearing of poppies has been a custom since 1921.

 

REMEMBRANCE DAY;

Why the Poppy Flower?

 

The month of November is marked

Today, fields of brilliant poppies still grow in France.

During the tremendous bombardments of the First World War the chalk soils became rich in lime from rubble, allowing poppies to thrive. This John McCrae's poem In Flanders Fields was published in 1915 the poppy became a popular symbol for soldiers who died in battle.

Since then, the poppy has come to be associated with the memory of the millions who died on the battlefield in the World Wars.

During a 1920 visit to the United States a French woman, Madame Guerin, learned of the custom. On her return to France she decided to use handmade poppies to raise money for the destitute children in war-torn areas of the country. This idea was adopted in other countries including the UK and Canada where the practice is now known as the Poppy Appear. In November, 1921, the first poppies were distributed in Canada in memory of the estimated  116,031 of their countrymen who died in battle.

 

 

Tradition to Remember Veterans

For most Americans, Memorial Day signifies the beginning of summer and opportunity for remembrance of those who have served our country during times of war and of peace. Officially, Memorial Day was first observed on May 30,1968 and was originally labeled Decoration Day. In the following years, by an act of Congress, the day of remembrance was moved to the last Monday of each May and renamed Memorial Day. The tradition of the red poppy has become a formality of Memorial Day which is often overlooked.

Inspired by a poem entitled, "In Flanders Fields", the poppy has become the flower symbol for the Memorial Day Holiday. From the poem, written by Canadian physician and soldier John McCrae, we develop a sense that the poppy represents the blood shed by soldiers during times of war. Although the poem was written by McCrae, the poppy was first recognized as the Memorial Day flower in 1915 when a woman by the name of Moina Michael began to sell poppies in an effort to encourage further recognition of the day. Michael helped to begin the National Poppy movement and to commemorate her efforts a 3-cent stamp was created in her honor.

The poppy, by nature, is a wildflower. It's seed will lie stagnant in the ground until it is disturbed. During times of war, soldiers would, inadvertently, churn ground as they marched though fields. The result was a beautiful and overabundant growth of poppy flowers found to flourish in conditions where most other flowers would die. Also during war, poppies were often used by physicians in administering morphine to soldiers in pain as it produces a by-product opium painreliever.

For some local communities, poppies begin a month long Memorial Day celebration. For example, In Georgetown, Texas, the annual Red Poppy Festival celebrates the blooming of poppies as well as the Texas State Flower, the bluebonnet. The Red Poppy Garden Club, based in Texas, promotes the growth and care of poppies during a two day celebration during the last weekend of April. By historical account, the poppy arrived in Georgetown through the hands of historical war veteran, Henry Purl Compton. "Okra", as he was fondly called, returned from service in the U.S. Army and presented his mother with seeds from Flanders Fields. It is believed that, from these seeds, the abundance of red poppies flourished on the slope of her property and later spread into the community with the assistance of birds and bees and now marks a celebration for Texas in the Austin area.

In honor of our veterans, planting a family of poppies in your own garden is simple. Whether you live in a house, condominium or apartment, the poppy is a flower that grows in abundance and is somewhat resilient in inclement conditions. Poppies grow 12 to 24" in height with annual blooms 65-90 days in length. Poppies prefer full sun to partial shade and will grow in moist soil but prefer well drained and slightly drier climates. Your first blooms will show in early to mid summer. Keep weeds down with mulching and water only during extended dry periods. By adding a general fertilizer once a month, your poppies will provide beautiful blooms for your summer enjoyment.

So, begin a new family tradition and plant poppies this Memorial Day in remembrance of the soldiers who committed their lives for our country and for a daily reflection of peace and beauty.

 

in conjunction with Remembrance Day, helps alleviate suffering and addresses the needs of veterans and their families who may not have the financial wherewithal for basic necessities.

The Legion assists with purchasing medical equipment, awarding bursaries for needy students, providing support services such as meals-on-wheels and drop-in centres and helping with some basic residential repairs to name but a few.

So much of the Legion’s work in our nation’s communities goes unnoticed.

Every day this organization of more than 330,000 people makes significant contributions, not only to enhance the lives of veterans, but also for seniors, Cadets, Scouts and Guides, as well as serving members of the Canadian Forces and RCMP and their families.

The Legion remains fiercely proud to be Canada’s largest veterans services organization.

Our advocacy work on behalf of all who have served in the Canadian Forces and RCMP ensures that they receive life-long support and recognition for their service to this country.

Thanks to their desire to give back, the Legion was created and continues to this day to support our communities in countless ways.

The Royal Canadian Legion’s Poppy Campaign provides everyone with the opportunity for practical remembrance and it is hoped that this year, with the recent conflicts in Afghanistan and Libya as with our aging Second World War and Korean Veterans, more Canadians will wear the Poppy than ever before.

There’s more to the Legion than you might think.

We care!

Find out today how you can get involved by visiting your local Legion branch … because you care; because you can.

Lest We Forget.

­— Gordon Moore is the Dominion President of The Royal Canadian Legion — www.legion.ca

 

In Flanders Field

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

John McCrae