A Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) captain sealed his union with his bride in a formal military wedding ceremony in Chitungwiza on Monday, blending military tradition with personal celebration.
Captain Chayamb
uka Chirombo exchanged vows with Emilia Kadzere at St Monica Cathedral, where the ceremony was marked by a guard of honour, sword arch and mounted escort, symbols that reflect the discipline, duty and heritage of the armed forces.
Military weddings are distinct for their ceremonial precision, underscoring the close link between personal commitment and professional service. For the families involved, the occasion carried both emotional and symbolic significance.
Relatives described the ceremony as a rare honour, noting the pride associated with seeing a family member recognised through military tradition.
“I feel honoured to be part of this beautiful event today. We have never seen this but because of my son in law and daughter we have witnessed a wonderful wedding that will always be talked about. We thank his military colleagues who have honoured not only him but us too as a family.
“My brother has done a wonderful thing today. He told us that his colleagues were going to come but what he did not prepare us for was this beautiful procession and the band that has been playing melodious songs. I congratulate him and his wife and wish them a happy union,” family members said.
Unlike a civilian wedding, a military one has as an officiating officer and a guest of honour from the army.
“When they enter the venue of the ceremony, they walk under the ark of arms as a way of safeguarding them and their marriage and telling them to guard jealously their wedding. The ark guards are also the bridal team of the day and escort the couple’s cars as they march from their homes to the wedding venue,” Zimbabwe National Army Captain, Jairos Madziiri stated.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Commander of Harare District, Lieutenant Colonel Willie Mandingo, said military discipline extends beyond the parade ground into family life.
“Tradition, a powerful symbol of the harmony between personal commitment and professional duty. In our line of work, we understand the weigh of vows and the sanctity of bonds forged in trust and shared purpose. Today’s ceremony is a testament to that, confirming not only the love between two individuals but also the good character and discipline of captain Chirombo.
“The army embraces the good things in the lives of its officers and the formation of a strong, loving family is among the greatest of these pursuits. A stable home is a pillar of strength for a soldier and we rejoice in seeing our comrade build his.
“The discipline captain Chirombo has honed on the parade ground and in the field is now poised to transcend into this new union. In the military, discipline is not about punishment hence it is about self control, reliability and unwavering commitment to the mission.
“That same discipline translates to consistency, dependability and a resolute dedication to your partner’s well being and the health of your relationship. It is the inner strength that keeps you faithful to your vows even when the initial excitement settles into the steady, deep rhythm of shared life. The bible offers profound wisdom for this new partnership,” Lieutenant Colonel Mandingo said.
The ceremony concluded with celebrations led by the military band, as guests joined the newlyweds in marking the beginning of their married life.
