Lieutenant General Sitali Dennis Alibuzwi, who served as Zambia Army Commander from August 2021 until the conclusion of his contract in September 2024, has been appointed Ambassador Plenipotentiary and Extraordinary to the Federal Republic of Brazil.
Lt. Gen. Alibuzwi was appointed Army Commander on 29 August 2021 by President Hakainde Hichilema, following his promotion from Major General to Lieutenant General. Before assuming command of the Army, he served as Deputy Army Commander and Chief of Staff, and held other senior leadership positions including:
Chief of Operations and Training
Director General of Policy, Doctrine and Strategy
Director of Personnel
During his tenure, Lt. Gen. Alibuzwi prioritized strengthening the operational readiness of the Zambia Army, enhancing training standards, enforcing discipline, and expanding Zambia’s role in United Nations peacekeeping missions, particularly in the Central African Republic.
In March 2023, Lt. Gen. Alibuzwi earned global recognition when he was inducted into the U.S. Army War College International Fellows Hall of Fame—becoming the first Zambian officer to receive this prestigious honor. The induction recognized his exemplary leadership and commitment to international military cooperation.
Lt. Gen. Alibuzwi’s contract as Army Commander ended on 12 September 2024, and he was succeeded by Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, ensuring a smooth and professional transition in the leadership of the Zambia Army.
His newly appointed diplomatic role marks a continuation of his dedicated service to the Republic of Zambia, this time representing the nation on the global stage in Brazil, a key partner in South–South cooperation and multilateral engagement.
Lt. Gen. Sitali Dennis Alibuzwi leaves behind a legacy of discipline, strategic vision, and service above self. His leadership within the military and now as a diplomat serves as an inspiration to future generations of Zambian leaders both in uniform and in public service.
