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Zambia National Service (ZNS)

The Zambia National Service (ZNS) is a key component of the Zambian Defence Force, dedicated to training Zambian citizens in agriculture and craft skills. Originally established in 1963 as the Land Army, it underwent a name change to Zambia National Service and has since played a vital role in national development. The ZNS also serves as a major sponsor of Green Eagles, a notable football club in Zambia.

Early History: Land Army and Independence
The Land Army was initially created as a militant wing of the United National Independence Party (UNIP), one of the major political parties advocating for Zambia's independence from colonial rule. It was envisioned as a potential guerrilla military force in case independence negotiations failed. However, the anticipated armed struggle did not materialize as the UNIP, along with the African National Congress (ANC), successfully navigated the nation towards independence, which was achieved on October 24, 1964.

Establishment of the Zambia Youth Service
Following Zambia's peaceful acquisition of independence, a pressing concern arose regarding the large, easily influenced, uneducated, and unemployed group of youth within the Land Army. Recognizing the need to demobilize and redirect their potential, the government introduced a skills training program to empower these individuals with trades that would help them become self-sufficient and contribute to post-independence national development and security.

Consequently, in 1965, the Land Army was transformed into the Zambia Youth Service. The aim was to impart skills to the formerly agitated youth and integrate them back into society as productive members. This program continued until December 1971.

Transformation into Zambia National Service
Due to Zambia's prominent role in supporting the liberation struggles of neighboring countries against colonial rule, the nation became a target for attacks by forces such as Ian Smith's regime in Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe) and the apartheid government in South Africa. These repeated attempts at destabilization significantly depleted the country's defense assets and resources, given the superior strength and armament of the rival forces.

In response, the Zambian government recognized the need to reinforce the Zambia Army and established a well-organized military institution to counter persistent incursions. On December 20, 1971, the Zambia Youth Service was dissolved, and the more militarized Zambia National Service was established through an Act of Parliament.

Zambia National Service Day
December 20 is now commemorated annually as Zambia National Service Day. This day serves as a tribute to the service members and their contributions to national security and development.

Change of Command Nomenclature
Originally, the ZNS was primarily responsible for training school leavers in market-based life-sustaining skills, and the title "Commandant" reflected this focus. However, due to the service's evolving roles and deployments, it became necessary to adopt a more inclusive term. Consequently, on December 29, 2021, the Council, mandated by the President to administer the affairs of the Service, overwhelmingly approved the change from "Commandant" to "Commander." This change in nomenclature came into effect on January 14, 2022, following the conveyance of authority by the Ministry of Defense.