Defence Services Command and Staff College Zambia

The Zambia Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), served as the African Liberation Centre and today it continues to stand as a strategic beacon of Professional Military Education and a symbol of the Zambia Defence Force’s enduring commitment to continental solidarity, resilience and transformational leadership.

As the nation and the African continent commemorate African Freedom Day, the Commandant DSCSC, Brigadier General Marcellino Chiluba, the College Headquarters, Faculty and Support Staff, proudly join the people of Zambia in honouring the gallant sacrifices, unity of purpose and collective resolve that advanced Pan-Africanism, self-determination and the liberation of Africa.

This year’s commemoration of Sixty-Three (63) Years of Unity, Integration and Development is under the theme, "Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”

DSCSC's responsibility as a custodian of strategic thought and national defence scholarship, remains resolute in nurturing leaders who uphold the ideals of African unity, peace, cooperation and sustainable progress.

Let us celebrate our shared heritage, enduring freedom and collective African destiny together.

Happy African Freedom Day!

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PREPARED IN MIND, FIT IN BODY

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Amid demanding academic schedules, Faculty and Student Officers of Course 28/2026 at the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) took time to unwind through sports activities at the Makeni Campus.

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DSCSC HOSTS GAFCSC DELEGATION FOR STRATEGIC ACADEMIC ENGAGEMENT

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The Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) hosted a delegation from the Ghana Armed Forces Command and Staff College (GAFCSC) at the Kamwala which was conducted under the theme, 'Africa’s Defence Industrial Base Constraints and Progress.'

The visiting delegation, led by the Deputy Commandant GAFCSC Senior Division, Brigadier General George Kwamena Sam, comprised Faculty members and Student Officers from Course No. 47/2025 undertaking an academic and strategic study tour of Zambia.

Receiving the delegation at the College, DSCSC Commandant Brigadier General Marcellino Chiluba expressed appreciation to the Ghanaian institution for selecting Zambia, and in particular DSCSC, as a key destination for continental academic interaction and professional military knowledge exchange.

The engagement commenced with a comprehensive institutional brief delivered by DSCSC Colonel Coordination, Colonel Elias Zulu, who outlined the establishment, statutory responsibilities, operational philosophy, developmental trajectory, organisational framework, academic programmes and notable milestones attained by the institution.

The presentation further highlighted the College’s collaborative arrangements with local learning institutions, including the University of Zambia (UNZA), alongside enduring partnerships with allied Command and Staff Colleges across Africa.

As part of the familiarisation itinerary, the GAFCSC team toured critical facilities within the Kamwala campus, among them the Gen David Muma Auditorium, Gen William Sikazwe War Simulation Bunker, the Library as well as the Army and Air Syndicate Chambers. Prior to luncheon at the Gen Nathan Mulenga Dining Hall, the delegation was also briefed on the commemorative plaque erected at the college by the African National Congress (ANC) in recognition of Zambia’s military and logistical support rendered during South Africa’s liberation struggle.

Delivering his remarks, Brigadier General George Kwamena Sam commended the Government of Zambia for its historic and strategic contribution towards the emancipation of African states and the advancement of regional solidarity. He further underscored the necessity for contemporary African institutions to strengthen cooperation beyond the ideological foundations laid by former Pan-African statesmen, Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Kwame Nkrumah.

“We need to amplify more what Zambia has done for African freedom; it is not enough. I never knew the extent to which this country’s military contributed to Africa and the sacrifices made beyond the independence struggle,” he stated.

In his closing address, Brigadier General Chiluba highlighted to the Students that the philosophy of Professional Military Education was centred on the development of three key elements viz a vie character, competency and commitment. He challenged the visiting Student Officers to uphold exemplary leadership attributes and professional conduct in the discharge of military responsibilities. He observed that good character and discipline were fundamental qualities that inspired confidence among subordinates and contributed significantly to operational effectiveness and mission accomplishment.

The DSCSC Commandant further conveyed profound appreciation to GAFCSC Commandant, Major General Jackson Wonje (ESQ), for facilitating the delegation’s academic visit to Zambia.

“Allow me to extend my sincere gratitude to the Commandant GAFCSC for selecting our college as a destination for your study tour. There are many other countries and Colleges that you could have visited, yet you chose Zambia. We are honoured to host you and privileged to share professional military knowledge with your delegation,” Brigadier General Chiluba remarked.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

ZAMBIAN DELEGATES PARTICIPATE IN THE MAIN PLANNING CONFERENCE (MPC) FOR THE COMBINED JOINT AFRICAN EXERCISE (CJAX)

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A delegation from Zambia participated in the Main Planning Conference for the Combined Joint African Exercise, which took place in Lilongwe, Republic of Malawi.

The Commandant Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) Brigadier General Marcellino Chiluba led the Zambia delegation comprised of Chief Instructors, Exercise Sponsors, Directing Staff and key stakeholders from the Zambia Police Service and Zambia Correctional Service.

CJAX, codenamed Exercise UHURU, is coordinated within the framework of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and executed based on the African Union (AU) Peace Support Operations (PSO) training doctrine.

The exercise is a multi-national training initiative designed to equip defence and security officers with the skills necessary to plan and execute PSOs in a complex and multi-national environment. The MPC, whose aim is to finalise plans, confirm responsibilities and administrative arrangements for the CJAX annual cycle, is one of the planning steps for ex*****on of this annual exercise.

Over time, the number of participating colleges has increased to nine (09), namely Angola, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

This is a reflection of the desired collaboration among African command and staff colleges thereby exchanging best practices towards finding solutions for the attainment of sustainable peace in countries affected by conflict.

Additionally, the presence of delegates from the AU and SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre (RPTC), added the much-needed value
during the MPC.

The inclusive composition of the Zambian delegation reflects the ideal multi-dimensional approach to PSOs.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

BORN IN KALULUSHI TO BE RAISED IN MAKENI: DSCSC HEADQUARTERS LAUNCHES EXERCISE SHANGA MUTENGO

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The Commandant Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), Brigadier General Marcelino Chiluba, spearheaded College Headquarters and faculty in the launch of Exercise SHANGA MUTENGO, marked by a strategic tree planting initiative at the New Staff College Makeni Campus in Lusaka.

The exercise drew its foundation from a recent academic tour to the Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) plantations in Kalulushi, where the institution received a consignment of Pinus tree seedlings.

The tree planting programme serves not merely as a ceremonial undertaking, but also as a gesture that strengthens the enduring collaboration between defence training institutions and key national stakeholders in advancing sustainable environmental practices, aligning ecological preservation with strategic defence imperatives.

In his address, Brigadier General Chiluba emphasised the importance of continuity and institutional ownership of the initiative, urging personnel to sustain momentum beyond the formal launch. He articulated a vision of transforming the Makeni Campus into a green and ecologically resilient environment, reflective of disciplined and forward-thinking military leadership.

"We need to do this more often, this entire area should, in time, be surrounded by plant life," he said.

Following the inauguration of the exercise, the Commandant conducted a comprehensive inspection of ongoing infrastructure development projects at the future Staff College site. The tour provided an opportunity to assess construction progress while simultaneously engaging with troops responsible for securing the facility.

The visit further enabled the Commandant to appraise administrative and welfare considerations affecting deployed personnel, reaffirming command's commitment to maintaining high morale and operational readiness among its members.

Ex - SHANGA MUTENGO therefore stands as a testament to college's commitment to integrating environmental consciousness within military doctrine, vis-à-vis building an all encompassing approach to leadership development anchored in sustainability, discipline and strategic foresight.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

DSCSC FACULTY ENGAGE PSPF OFFICIALS IN STRATEGIC FINANCIAL LITERACY SESSION

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In a continued effort to strengthen Professional Military Education (PME) through holistic capacity building, the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) Faculty and Support Staff conducted an in-depth engagement with officials from the Public Service Pension Fund (PSPF), aimed at enhancing institutional understanding of pension administration and long term financial planning.

The engagement provided a comprehensive exposition on the legislative framework underpinning the Fund, particularly its establishment under Cap. 260 of the Laws of Zambia, Act No. 35 of 1996.

Discussions were mainly centred on the governance of retirement benefits, pension schemes, mortgage facilities, loan structures and savings mechanisms designed to support public service personnel throughout and beyond their active service.

PSPF Records Officer, Mumbi Chisanga Mungawa and her team of comprised of Assistant Benefits Officer, Mr Edward Chaibela and Loans Officer, Mr Moris Nkandu delivered detailed briefs on the technical processes involved in pension assessment, actuarial analysis and the systematic disbursement of benefits to the entitled members. The team elaborated on the Fund’s portfolio of financial products, including cost-effective microfinance loans and mortgage facilities tailored to meet the socio-economic needs of serving personnel.

Faculty and Support Staff were sensitised on prudent financial practices and risk mitigation strategies aimed at averting post-retirement financial vulnerabilities, thereby reinforcing the concept of financial resilience as an integral pillar of personal and professional stability.

DSCSC Commandant Brigadier General Marcelino Chiluba emphasised the strategic value of such interactions, noting that pension awareness remains a vital aspect of personnel administration. He noted that personnel may not maintain adequate situational awareness of their pension status, and so interactions of this manner amplify the necessity of continuous financial education.

The Commandant further reiterated that financial security is an individual responsibility that must be deliberately cultivated, and commended the PSPF officials for delivering timely and impactful knowledge.

The engagement has significantly contributed to enhancing the financial literacy and preparedness of DSCSC Faculty and Support Staff, in line with the broader objectives of PME.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

A MOMENT TO RECHARGE: DSCSC AIR WING HOSTS INTERACTION NIGHT

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Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), Directing Staff (DS), Air Wing, Colonel Macdonald Simumba and Wing Commander Moyo, engaged with Air Student Officers of Course 28/2026 during a DS - Students Interaction Night at the Makeni Campus in Lusaka.

The event provided a timely opportunity for the student officers to unwind and engage informally after an intensive period of academic and military training, fostering camaraderie and open dialogue ahead of another demanding week.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

DSCSC COMMENDS ZNS SHOE FACTORY IN NDOLA DURING PROVINCIAL STUDY TOUR

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In its continued pursuit of fostering national development through institutional collaboration and strategic engagement, the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) undertook an industrial educational visit to the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Shoe Factory in Ndola.

The delegation was led by DSCSC Commandant, Brigadier General Marcelino Chiluba, accompanied by Directing Staff, Faculty and Student Officers of Course 28/2026.

Upon arrival, the delegation was formally received by the Commanding Officer of the ZNS Shoe Factory, Lieutenant Colonel Mashekwa Nalumango, who facilitated a comprehensive programme outlining the operational framework and production processes of the establishment.

The ZNS Shoe Factory operates with a dual mandate: primarily, to manufacture high-quality leather goods utilising locally sourced raw materials and secondarily, to contribute to agro-processing through the production of baked commodities including bread, pies, scones and flour-based products.

This integrated production model reflects a deliberate effort to maximise resource efficiency while contributing to national food security and industrial output.

During the tour, Student Officers were afforded the opportunity to engage with both the leather production and bakery sections, gaining critical insights into the factory’s operational dynamics. It was highlighted that the original strategic intent behind the establishment of the facility was centred on vocational training for Zambian youths in leather craftsmanship.

However, in response to increased market demand and evolving national priorities, the Government of the Republic of Zambia broadened the factory’s mandate to encompass the supply of goods to public institutions, government spending agencies, and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

The delegation was informed that the factory currently maintains a substantial production capacity, averaging between 50,000 and 80,000 pairs of shoes, alongside approximately 260 to 280 loaves of bread, and in excess of 300 pies and scones per day. Emphasis was placed on ongoing efforts to enhance product quality, improve production efficiency, and ensure competitiveness within both public and commercial markets.

In pursuit of sustained economic viability, the factory has adopted a pragmatic and cost-effective production strategy, complemented by an evolving marketing approach that leverages digital platforms and diversified retail outlets to expand its market reach.

Speaking on behalf of the Commandant, Directing Staff (DS) Air Wing, Colonel Ignatius Mulenga, conveyed profound appreciation to the Commanding Officer and the ZNS leadership for the hospitality extended to the DSCSC delegation.

He underscored the value of such engagements in enriching the academic and professional development of Student Officers, particularly in understanding the nexus between defence institutions and national economic development.

The visit forms part of the College’s broader pedagogical framework aimed at equipping future military leaders with a comprehensive appreciation of national industrial capabilities and their strategic relevance to defence and security.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

ZAFFICO EDIFIES DSCSC ACADEMIC LOCAL TOUR ON THE COPPERBELT

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The Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC) extended their local study tour to the Zambia Forestry and Forest Industries Corporation (ZAFFICO) on the Copperbelt, aimed at broadening student officers’ appreciation of the nexus between natural resource management, economic resilience and national security under the theme, "Enhancing National and Economic Development through collaboration and strategic partnerships."

Leading the delegation, Chief Instructor (CI) Army, Colonel Chrispin Munachilemba, underscored ZAFFICO’s strategic relevance as a key national asset and partner institution. He highlighted that the corporation’s contribution to Zambia’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) positions it as a critical enabler of economic stability, which remains a fundamental pillar of national security. Colonel Munachilemba emphasized that understanding such economic drivers is essential for contemporary military leaders operating within a comprehensive security framework.

During the engagement, ZAFFICO Director of Operations, Mr. Justin Tongo, provided an operational overview of the corporation’s national footprint, noting its plantation estates across the Copperbelt, Luapula, Northern, North-Western, and Muchinga Provinces. He identified Ndola as the corporation’s principal plantation hub, further disclosing that ZAFFICO commands a landholding of approximately 100,000 hectares, with 62,000 hectares currently under plantation.

Mr. Tongo encouraged the student officers to adopt a forward-looking perspective on forestry, describing it as a strategic, long-term investment vehicle with the capacity to enhance household resilience and contribute to sustainable national development.

Providing technical insight into plantation management, Ndola Plantation Manager Mr. Kaji Bevan outlined the species composition, indicating that the estate comprises approximately 75 percent pine, 24 percent eucalyptus, and 1 percent Gmelina. He further noted an average maturation cycle of 25 years, underscoring the long-term planning and resource stewardship required within the forestry sector.

Delivering a vote of thanks on behalf of the student cohort, Allied Student Officer Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Chirisa expressed profound appreciation for the institutional exposure. He noted that the tour significantly enhanced their understanding of the interdependence between economic infrastructure, resource governance, and national security imperatives.

The tour forms part of DSCSC’s broader academic programme designed to equip student officers with a multidimensional perspective on security, integrating military, economic, and environmental considerations in line with modern strategic studies.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power

3 INFANTRY BRIGADE COMMANDER EMPHASISES STRATEGIC VALUE OF MILITARY TRAINING

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3 Infantry Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Kelvin Chiyangi, has reaffirmed the centrality of structured and continuous military training as a cornerstone of operational effectiveness within modern armed forces.

Speaking during a cocktail reception held in Ndola in honour of Student Officers, faculty and staff from the Defence Services Command and Staff College (DSCSC), Brigadier General Chiyangi described military training as a strategic investment that yields both immediate and long term dividends in capability development.

He emphasised that comprehensive training frameworks not only enhance tactical proficiency but also cultivate critical thinking and leadership competencies essential for contemporary military operations.

Brigadier General Chiyangi further noted that well designed training programmes contribute significantly to the professionalisation of defence institutions globally, enabling forces to adapt to evolving security dynamics and complex operational environments.

In his remarks, DSCSC Commandant, Brig Gen Marcellino Chiluba, commended 3 Infantry Brigade for its sustained contribution to national security and its role as a dependable and responsive formation.

He underscored the importance of institutional collaboration in strengthening defence capacity and encouraged student officers to maximise the academic and practical insights gained during their educational engagements.

Meanwhile, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Ground Defence Command (GDC), Brig Gen Dr Nelson Mwamba, highlighted the indispensability of joint coordination in modern military operations. He observed that effective integration of land and air capabilities remains a decisive factor in achieving mission success, particularly within multi-domain operational contexts.

The engagement reflects the Defence Services Command and Staff College’s continued commitment to fostering professional military education and enhancing interoperability among Zambia’s defence establishments.

DSCSC - Knowledge is Power