Zambia to Launch Second ZNS Voluntary National Service Cohort Following April Graduation

Zambia's Ministry of Defence will recruit a second cohort for the Zambia National Service (ZNS) Voluntary National Service Training programme later this year, with enrolment set to begin once the inaugural group graduates in April 2026.

Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu confirmed the timeline on Radio Phoenix, explaining that the first intake — which exceeded its own targets — began training in September 2025. A total of 1,138 young Zambians enrolled, surpassing the initial target of 1,092 drawn from the country's 156 constituencies.

Trainees are currently receiving instruction across three ZNS facilities: Chiwoko Training School in Eastern Province, Kitwe Training School on the Copperbelt, and Chishimba Training School in Northern Province. Haamaundu noted that the second cohort will be of similar size, as the capacity of the three centres remains fixed.

The programme, implemented under a Presidential directive, combines vocational skills with basic military instruction and discipline. The Permanent Secretary said the government's ambition extends beyond the training itself — graduates will be directed towards existing empowerment programmes to help them establish businesses and create employment for others.

"They will develop a culture of hard work," Haamaundu said. "They will become reliable employees not only for government but also for the private sector."

Graduates will also carry a competitive advantage should they wish to pursue careers in Zambia's defence and security services, having already completed foundational military training.