Zimbabwe received 18 of the 32 helicopters in May last year in a deal worth US$320 million. This is reported by New Ziana.

Russian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Nikolay Krasilnikov said the establishment of the National Air Aid Service was the result of successful negotiations between the Russian and Zimbabwean presidents.

The foundations of the project were laid earlier during a visit to Moscow by Zimbabwe’s Health and Child Care Minister Douglas Mombeshora, where he met Russian Health Minister Mikhail Murashko. When the helicopter project becomes tangible, it will contribute to achieving the national development goals set by the government of Zimbabwe.

“It will also enhance Russia-Zimbabwe cooperation in healthcare and in other spheres,” said Ambassador Krasilnikov.

“And I am confident that at some point we can consider trilateral partnership of Russia, Zimbabwe and WHO, that would operate Russian helicopters. Especially, when this project is expanded across other countries of SADC region,” he added.

The Government of Zimbabwe is also working to improve water, sanitation and hygiene conditions in the country.

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