Staff ReporterLusaka, Zambia – In a significant development, the United States Government has extended a generous hand to Zambia, offering vital support in the form of four high-performance helicopters and three years of comprehensive training for staff. The total value of this assistance package stands at approximately $70m
General Michael Langley, the Commander of United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), made the announcement, highlighting the pivotal role these helicopters will play in Zambia’s ongoing commitment to maintaining peace across the African continent.
“These helicopters will empower Zambia to continue supporting UN peacekeeping missions and align with its dedication to preserving peace in Africa,” General Langley affirmed during a media briefing.
Moreover, General Langley emphasized that these helicopters are not limited to military applications alone. They will also serve a broader spectrum of purposes, including rapid disaster response, assistance in mitigating the effects of climate change, and providing support to neighboring countries in times of need.
Lieutenant General Sitali Alibuzwi, the Zambia Army Commander, shed light on Zambia’s active engagement in international cooperation efforts, underscoring that the military has signed numerous agreements with various countries.
Highlighting the multifaceted cooperation between the two nations, US Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzalas stated, “The United States and Zambia share various areas of collaboration, spanning health and military cooperation.” This collaboration, therefore, extends beyond the recent helicopter and training support, encompassing a broader partnership.
The generous donation of these high-performance helicopters and training underscores the commitment of the United States to bolstering Zambia’s military capabilities, enhancing its disaster response capacity, and fostering diplomatic ties between the two nations. This partnership is poised to have a lasting impact on peace and security in the region.
As Zambia continues to play a pivotal role in peacekeeping efforts across Africa, this assistance from the United States is poised to make a significant difference in the nation’s ability to respond to crises and promote stability on the continent.
