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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 45570, member: 636"] Russian pilots and technicians operate Zimbabwe's air ambulance helicopters because the country lacks trained workers. Health Minister Douglas Mombeshora explained this situation to lawmakers during a recent parliament session. The government purchased 32 Russian helicopters in May 2023 at $10 million each. Officials assigned 12 aircraft for medical emergencies and gave the remaining helicopters to police and military forces. The air ambulance program began operating in July 2024 after a full year of delays. Three helicopters currently provide emergency medical transport across the country. Two aircraft serve patients in Harare and one operates from Bulawayo. Nine other medical helicopters remain on the ground without crews to fly them. The monthly cost to run these aircraft reaches $36,000 according to government figures. Medical teams have rescued 411 patients with serious conditions since the service started. Emergency crews flew 345 patients to Sally Mugabe Central Hospital in Harare for treatment. Another 66 people received transport to United Bulawayo Hospitals for medical care. Many cases involved pregnant women with complications and victims of serious accidents. Government officials plan to expand service to Victoria Falls, Mutare, and Masvingo cities. The program has saved many lives during its first months of operation. Zimbabwe signed a contract with Game Drive aviation company for technical support. The firm provides qualified pilots and mechanics to maintain the helicopter fleet. Game Drive also trains local workers to eventually replace the Russian staff members. The aircraft belong entirely to the Zimbabwean government despite foreign operation. [/QUOTE]

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