By Washira Helene
Russian President Vladimir Putin gifted a presidential helicopter to Zimbabwean President Emerson Mnangagwa this day Thursday July 17, 2023 during the Russia-Africa summit in Saint Petersburg.
The helicopter, a Mil Mi-171Sh, is a military transport helicopter that can also be used for civilian purposes. It is capable of carrying up to 36 passengers and has a range of over 1,000 kilometers.
Mnangagwa said that the helicopter would be used to improve transportation in Zimbabwe and to help with disaster relief efforts. He also thanked Putin for the gift, saying that it was a “very thoughtful gesture.”
The Russia-Africa summit is a two-day event that is aimed at strengthening ties between Russia and African countries. The summit is being attended by over 40 African leaders, including Mnangagwa.
The gift of the helicopter is seen as a sign of Russia’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Zimbabwe. It is also a way for Putin to show off Russia’s military capabilities to African leaders.
