Online Reporter
Kuda Bwititi
Zimpapers Politics Hub
Russia’s provision of a national air ambulance service to Zimbabwe stands as the first initiative of its kind on the African continent, Russia’s chief diplomat in Harare has said. THE Government-sponsored air ambulance service has surpassed 1 170 civil emergency responses since its launch in August 2024, signalling a transformation in the country’s emergency medical infrastructure.
This follows the introduction of a fleet of six helicopters in a deal initiated by President Mnangagwa to ensure everyone accesses class medical care.
The service, a partnership between the Government of Zimbabwe and Russia’s HeliDrive Air Medical Services, was established to bridge the gap in specialised care for remote communities and victims of road traffic accidents.
The air ambulance service is saving lives nationwide, earning the appreciation of Zimbabweans across the country.
Its utility has already extended beyond national borders, with two air-rescue helicopters deployed last week to assist flood relief efforts in Mozambique.
In an interview with Zimpapers Politics Hub, Ambassador Nikolai Krasilnikov said the fleet symbolises the tangible fruits of a thriving bilateral partnership.
“We are proud that Russia participates in implementation of establishing Zimbabwe National Air Ambulance Service, the first of its kind in Africa (supplied by Russia),” Ambassador Krasilnikov said.
Since its launch in August 2024, the Government-sponsored service has executed about 1,200 emergency responses, marking a significant transformation in Zimbabwe’s medical infrastructure.
Detailing the partnership’s mechanics, Ambassador Krasilnikov said Russia has also provided skills training to Zimbabwean staff. “Russian and Russia trained Zimbabwean pilots, doctors and paramedics operate a fleet of helicopters delivered to Harare in 2023 by Rostec, Russia’s major manufacturer of the advanced technology products. HeliDrive Company, which runs air ambulance service across the North West of Russia, operates the project in Zimbabwe.”
The service expanded its operational footprint in 2025 by inaugurating a new base in Victoria Falls. “Last year the air ambulance service added Victoria Falls to its bases in Harare and Bulawayo,” Ambassador Krasilnikov noted, adding, “Russia-Zimbabwe teams have airlifted up to 1200 patients, requiring urgent, life-saving care.freddy
