The roles of the ZNA are provided for as Primary and Secondary roles.

Primary Role:

The primary role of the ZNA is to protect and safeguard the sovereignty, territorial integrity and national interests of the Republic of Zimbabwe against existential threats.

Secondary Roles: 

The Secondary role of the ZNA is to assist civil authorities for the maintenance of peace and tranquillity, humanitarian assistance during disasters and calamities or any other circumstances that may endanger human security.