Since its launch in August 2024, Zimbabwe’s air ambulance service, operated by Russian company HeliDrive, has made a significant impact, saving the lives of 67 patients, including 21 children aged 17 and under. Funded by the Government, this service is crucial for providing timely emergency medical transport, particularly in rural areas where access to advanced healthcare is often limited.
The service’s first successful mission occurred on August 24, when a patient suffering from cardiac arrest was airlifted from Chegutu District Hospital to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare. Since then, the air ambulance has played an essential role in addressing medical emergencies across the country.
Children, especially those aged zero to five, have been the primary beneficiaries of the service. Notably, 16 infants were airlifted for urgent medical attention, with the majority suffering from congenital defects requiring corrective surgeries. The service has transported three children aged six to 12 and two aged 12 to 17, ensuring that they receive the specialized care they need.
Dr. Freddy Mhondiwa, medical director of HeliDrive Zim, emphasized the importance of the service, particularly for newborns with congenital issues. “Most of the children we have been airlifting are neonates born with congenital defects who needed corrective surgeries at Sally Mugabe Central and Parirenyatwa Hospitals,” he stated.
Out of the 67 patients airlifted, 64 were hospital transfers, while three were victims of road traffic accidents. The demographic breakdown revealed that 37 of the patients were female, with 43 patients aged between 18 and 64 years and three over 65. The service has primarily benefited patients from rural provinces, with Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital leading the transfers, followed closely by Concession District Hospital, Chegutu, and Bindura Provincial Hospital.
Part of President Mnangagwa’s modernization drive for Zimbabwe’s health sector, the initiative aims to provide critical en route medical care. Six air ambulances stationed in Harare, Bulawayo, Mutare, and Victoria Falls are equipped to handle various emergencies, ensuring nationwide coverage.
HeliDrive is also committed to training local professionals, with 40 pilots, 40 doctors, 50 nurses, 10 dispatchers, and 10 engineers currently undergoing training. Additionally, the Russian company has supplied helicopters that will be utilized in the tourism sector. As Zimbabwe faces high rates of road traffic accidents—approximately 4,250 per month according to the Traffic Safety Council of Zimbabwe—the air ambulance service plays a vital role in reducing fatalities by providing quick access to life-saving care. Air ambulances offer not only transportation but also intensive care unit (ICU)-level treatment en route, making them invaluable in emergencies.
In other news – Mai TT switches allegiance to Dynamos
In a surprising twist in the world of Zimbabwean football fandom, comedian and businesswoman Mai TT has publicly declared her change of allegiance from Caps United to Dynamos. The announcement came with a humorous yet heartfelt message, reflecting her commitment to her lover’s team amidst playful banter.
In her social media post, Mai TT expressed, “Ndinehurombo kepe kepe ndati ndingokuudzai kuti zvanzi ndikaramba ndichikusapotayi imba yaparara baba varikudya gaka nerudyio rwanezuro saka varikuti I choose between you and him.” Read More
