The Zimbabwe National Army has hailed the country's three top musicians for their continued support to it's charity endeavours

The army also pledged to provide security at the musicians' shows.

Alick Macheso, Suluman Chimbetu and Jah Prayzah have been performing at army charity event for the past three years.

They are expected to perform at this year's ZNA Commander charity shield match slated for March 3 at Rufaro Stadium.

The match would feature CAPS United and army side Black Rhinos.

Brigadier-General Howard Matombo, who met the trio while representing ZNA commander Lieutenant-General Phillip Valerio Sibanda, said they had been "faithful servants" to the army.

"Your commitment in supporting us is overwhelming and on behalf of the commander of the national army, I would like to praise you for your effort in supporting us," he said.

Brig-Gen Matombo said as a gesture of goodwill, the army would provide security details for the musicians' shows.

"Our relationship should be two-way. We always ask you to perform and we expect that if you want to beef up security at your shows, you just call us," he said.

Brig-Gen Matombo also took the opportunity to congratulate the musicians for their individual exploits.

"I heard that Sulu scooped three awards at Nama.

"This shows that you are evolving as an artiste and congratulations for that.

"Jah Prayzah also scooped radio station awards and Macheso's 'Zora Butter' went viral. It shows that you are among the greatest musicians in the country," he said.

Jah Prayzah, who was dressed in his usual military gear, was overwhelmed with the occasion, describing it as a "dream come true".

"I was waiting for this day all my life. I wanted to be a soldier before I ventured into music and I wanted to meet the top echelons of the army. I am humbled and so happy," he said.

Macheso said performing at such charity events helped the musicians to market themselves.

"I remember performing at last year's Defence Forces Day and I was overwhelmed by the occasion and I cried.

"Many eyes would be on us and it's an honour," he said.

Brig-Gen Matombo said proceeds from the charity match would be disbursed among the army's charity arms.

"We have different charity organs. We have Tsanga Lodge, ZNA Welfare Fund, Widows and Orphans and the benevolent trust that we want to capacitate," he said.