Urgent Need for Pilots Delays Operationalisation of Zimbabwe’s Helicopter Ambulances

HARARE – Zimbabwe’s newly acquired helicopter ambulances, imported from Russia, are currently not in operation due to a shortage of qualified pilots, the government disclosed. As a result, the provision of emergency services in remote areas has been greatly affected, leading to preventable loss of lives. n

According to Health and Child Care Minister, Douglas Mombeshora, the Ministry and the Air Force are working tirelessly to recruit pilots to address this pressing issue. The recruitment drive aims to ensure that skilled pilots can promptly respond to emergency situations, thus minimizing the loss of lives.

“The shortage of pilots for the helicopter ambulances poses a critical challenge that demands urgent attention. Lives are at stake, and it is crucial that we take swift action to prevent any further casualties resulting from delayed emergency response,” stated Mombeshora.

The shortage of pilots has had devastating consequences for individuals in dire need of immediate medical attention.

In May of this year, Zimbabwe received 18 helicopters from Russia as part of a public-private partnership between Harare and Moscow. These helicopters were intended to be used for medical emergencies, air policing, and search and rescue operations during natural disasters such as the recent Cyclone Idai, which claimed numerous lives.

Regrettably, due to the lack of pilots, these helicopters are currently idle, significantly impacting emergency services in the country.