About Us
Discover the rich history, mandate, and vision of the National Defence College – a premier institution dedicated to defence and security education.
Our History
Foundation of the National Defence University
The President and Commander in Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces laid the foundation stone to initiate the construction of the NDC on 16 July 2010. The activation and operationalization of the NDC were authorized by the Honorable Minister of Defence in terms of the Defence Act Chapter 11:02, Part II, Section 5, Sub-section (a) on 23rd February 2011.
The establishment of the National Defence College was a result of a thorough soul searching exercise and environmental scanning process by senior ZDF Commanders. It had become apparent that there was a need to establish a joint military and civilian institution of higher learning to provide a platform for study and research by senior officers on defence and security issues.
2004
The first recorded initiative for the establishment of a National Defence College was pronounced by the Commander Defence Forces (CDF), General Constantine Guveya Chiwenga, on 18 November 2004 in his Annual Strategic Training Directive.
2008
On 5 September 2008, the Head of State and Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, His Excellency President Robert Gabriel Mugabe, authorised the establishment of the National Defence College following recommendations by the then Minister of Defence, Honourable E D Mnangagwa.
2010
The groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of the National Defence College Complex at Thornpark Estate was presided over by His Excellency, President RG Mugabe on 16 July 2010, marking the beginning of massive construction activities.
2011
In terms of the Defence Act Chapter 11:02 Part 11, Section 5, sub-section (a) the Minister of Defence authorized the operationalization of the National Defence College establishment concept on 23 February 2011.
2012
Construction was completed in a record eighteen months leading to the hand-over of the institution to the Ministry of Defence and National Defence College on 14 September 2012.
Our Mandate
To be the leading national defence and security institution grounded in Zimbabwean national interests and values, that provides quality programmes fostering continuous research and innovation to respond comprehensively to challenges within the realm of the global defence and security matrix.
Our Mission
To strategically develop, through research and multi-disciplinary programmes, patriotic individuals, institutions and communities who are alert and conscious in the face of national, regional and global challenges and threats, and to act as a national think-tank for the great nation of Zimbabwe.
Our Vision
To be the nation's defence and security hub fostering integrative and conscious nation-building.
Core Values
Zimbabwe First
Upholding national sovereignty and interests above all else.
Pan-Africanism
Fostering unity and cooperation across the African continent.
Unhu/Ubuntu
Embodying humanity, respect, and community.
Leadership
Developing strategic leaders for defence and security.
Strategic Thinking
Analytical and forward-looking approaches to security.
Knowledge-Driven
Commitment to research, innovation, and learning.
Liberation Ethos
Honouring the struggle for Zimbabwe's independence and sovereignty.
Meet Our Leadership
Dedicated Administration Guiding Our Educational Excellence
The National Defence College is led by distinguished military and academic professionals committed to excellence in defence and security education.
22+
Years of Excellence
45+
Faculty Members
98%
Student Success
