This is the biography of Retired Air Marshal Elson Moyo, a Zimbabwean military officer who served as the Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe from December 2017 until March 2024. His career spanned several decades, during which he played a significant role in the country’s military operations and leadership.
Early Life and Education
Elson Moyo was born in Mberengwa, Zimbabwe. In 1977, while a student at Manama Secondary School, he and his cousin SB Moyo left school to join the liberation struggle via Botswana. Moyo was one of the first black Africans to receive full pilot training outside the country, as the Rhodesian government had blocked black Africans from becoming pilots.
Elson Moyo Military Career
Moyo joined the Air Force of Zimbabwe in 1980 as an Air-Sub Lieutenant. He received pilot training in Russia in 1980 and further training in Pakistan in 1983. Over the years, he advanced through the ranks, becoming an accomplished pilot with over 1,970 hours of flying time in various aircraft, including the Hunter, SF260M, SF260TP, Hawk, MIG 15, L29, MF1-17, and T-371.
In 2003, former President Robert Mugabe promoted Moyo from Air Commodore to Air Vice-Marshal. He held various positions within the Air Force, including Chief of Staff – Operations and Officer Commanding Number 1 Squadron. In December 2017, he was promoted to Air Marshal and appointed Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Moyo was one of the main figures in the 2017 Zimbabwean coup d’état attempt, which led to the resignation of President Robert Mugabe.
Contributions as Commander
Elson Moyo Biography [Image: X]
As Commander of the Air Force of Zimbabwe, Moyo focused on modernising the force and enhancing its operational capabilities. He was known for his hands-on approach and his ability to command personal loyalty from those he had trained. Moyo retired from his position in March 2024 after serving for over six years as Commander.
Elson Moyo Accident
On October 29, 2024, Moyo was involved in a car accident near Chegutu. The single-vehicle incident occurred when he lost control of his silver Toyota Hilux double cab while negotiating a curve. The vehicle collided with a tree, overturned, and landed back on its wheels.
Moyo was taken to Chegutu District Hospital for a preliminary examination and later airlifted to Harare Hospital for further medical evaluation.
References
- Retired Air Marshal Elson Moyo in car accident – iHarare
- AFZ bids farewell to Air Chief Marshal Moyo -The Herald
- Air Vice-Marshal Elson Moyo | Profile – Africa Confidential
