AS she sat in the commandant’s office, heart pounding, thinking she was about to lose her job, Catherine Makwala instead received news that would make history – she was being promoted as the first female officer to attain the rank of Brigadier General in the Zambia National Service. For her, the milestone was never just personal, it was about paving the way for other women in the military. Now, she dreams of seeing a female appointed commander before she takes her final bow. On February 2, 1980, Makwala began her journey in the Zambia National Service (ZNS) as a young recruit. She rose through the ranks, becoming the first female Brigadier General in ZNS history. Her career included roles such...