AMREF has once again taken emergency evacuation to new heights. Through AMREF Flying Doctors, the organisation has acquired a new aircraft – King Air Beechcraft aeroplane - that will enhance its capacity of handling emergencies. The new air ambulance will reinforce the growing demand for its evacuation services.
Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero, who presided over the unveiling ceremony, pledged to work with AMREF in ensuring enhanced accessible health services. He observed that AMREF has grown since its inception in 1957 and the new aircraft demonstrated the organisation’s determination to achieve its goals by increasing its capacity.
The new King Air before the launch
Speaking at the event, AMREF Director General Dr Teguest Guerma said: “We consistently aim to impact remote communities by dealing with the root cause of the problem in order to provide lasting solutions. The AMREF Flying Doctors do not only fly in and out administering emergency evacuation and treatment to patients but are actively involved in building the capacity of health workers while on such missions.”
According to AMREF Flying Doctors CEO Dr Bettina Vadera, many lives in rural areas continue to be lost due to unavailable medical care. The acquisition of the new aircraft was therefore a milestone towards improving provision of health care in Africa through emergency evacuation services.
The aircraft was acquired through credit facilities provided by Chase Bank, a major supporter of AMREF’s work particularly through the Stand Up for African Mothers Campaign, which seeks to improve the health of mother in Africa.
AMREF is a transparent organisation distributing funds of up to $85 million per year.
