03/06/2026
By Sr. Odilia Nyirenda, CNCS Hub Solwezi
Zambia Air Force (ZAF) officers in North-Western Province have undergone self-awareness training in Solwezi to strengthen stress management, emotional control and decision-making skills required in high-stakes military operations.
The training, facilitated by Sr. Mariana Mwanza and Sr. Odilia Nyirenda, aimed to help officers better understand themselves and others while enhancing their ability to respond effectively to the challenges they encounter during their missions.
Sr. Mariana Mwanza said self-awareness is critical in military service because officers often operate in demanding environments where panic, unchecked emotions or poor judgement can have serious consequences.
She said the training focused on equipping participants with practical skills to manage stress, regulate emotions and make objective decisions in rapidly changing situations.
“Self-awareness helps officers understand their strengths, weaknesses, emotions and limitations. This enables them to make sound decisions, manage stress effectively and respond appropriately to the challenges they face in their work,” said Sr. Mwanza.
She said self-awareness is particularly important for military personnel because their work requires clear thinking and sound judgement, especially in situations that demand quick and accurate decision-making.
Sr. Mwanza explained that self-awareness involves understanding one's thoughts, emotions, motivations, behaviours and core values, while also recognising how one's actions affect others.
She noted that developing both internal and external self-awareness is essential for personal growth, effective communication and professional performance.
