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The Airforce of Zimbabwe (AFZ) has downsized its contingent in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) by 75 percent, ‘The Standard’ said at the weekend. According to the newspaper a shortage of foreign currency for spare parts was one of the factors behind the decision.
The minister of defence, Moven Mahachi confirmed that the AFZ had returned home, but said this was a routine “resting period”, the report said. “It is not new that the soldiers are recalled back home for rest and recuperation. Many of our soldiers usually return back for a short vacation and there is nothing wrong with that. Are they supposed to stay in DRC forever?” Mahachi was quoted as saying. “The soldiers will return to resume their duties in the DRC as soon as their leave is over.”
Mahachi denied claims that the airmen were grounded in the DRC because of a shortage of spare parts. “It is not true that they are not flying. Our air force only flies when there is need to do so. You must also appreciate that there is a ceasefire in the DRC right now,” said Mahachi. Mahachi said he could not confirm the numbers of the air regiments fighting in the DRC.
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